Interrogating the Role of Social Media in Civic Engagement and Development Administration in Anambra State, Nigeria

Ogbuagu E. Nkechi & Omamor P. Amaka

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Abstract

The research examined the impact of social media on citizens’ civic engagement and the impact on government’s development administration. The aim was to find out if the information on social media actually influences voters’ preferences during elections and the impact on government administration. The survey research method was adopted to gather primary data from the field. A structured questionnaire and an in-depth interview were administered to civil servants and business men/women, respectively. In addition, secondary sources of data were sourced from published academic materials, news reports and other relevant internet materials. Data from the questionnaire were analysed using simple percentage analysis, while the interview responses were analysed thematically in line with the research objectives. It was discovered that government activities on social media influence the choices of voters during elections. In addition, the study observed that information and activities on social media also influence development administration by the government. The paper recommended, amongst others, that since social media has been observed to be a good tool to demand accountability and transparency from government, it is therefore important for government to create platforms that can be easily accessible, understandable and usable by the citizens.

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