Communication Week: Social Media Users Urged to Communicate Responsibly
By Polycarp Ifeanyi, Onitsha
Social media users have been urged to communicate responsibly, especially in the context of evangelizing through digital platforms.
This call was made by various digital communication experts during the 2025 Communication Week, organized by the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha. The conference, themed “Share with Gentleness the Hope That Is in Your Hearts,” took place at Trinity College, Basilica Square, Onitsha.
In his welcome address, the Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke, described the event as an important forum for educating the faithful on the responsible use of social media.
He was represented by the Chancellor of the Archdiocese, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Prudentius Emeka Aroh.
Fr. Aroh emphasized that social media is a divine gift meant to enhance communication and information sharing. He, however, expressed concern over its misuse, stating that many people now use it to promote immoral activities and criminal behavior.
“Social media should be a tool to glorify God and spread His message,” he said.
Rev. Fr. Anacletus Ogbunkwu, in his presentation titled “Catholic and Digital Identity: Media Challenges and Prospects for Responsible Netizenship,” addressed the responsibilities of internet users,referred to as “netizens.”
He posed critical questions: “How can people use the internet responsibly? What are their duties in the digital space?”
Fr. Ogbunkwu stressed that platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok, and Instagram, though secular in nature, can be powerful tools for evangelization if used properly.
However, he also listed several challenges associated with social media use, including its influence on youth, the erosion of family prayer life, shallow thinking, reduced attention span, and breakdown of interpersonal family communication.
Engineer Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata highlighted the transformative role of digital knowledge across all age groups, noting that Artificial Intelligence (AI) now provides solutions to research queries, creates employment opportunities, and facilitates entrepreneurship.
Dr. Uche Nwakor cautioned against the health risks posed by mobile phone radiation.
He advised against placing phones on the chest, arms, or thighs, and recommended the use of radiation-resistant devices as a preventive measure.
Addressing the topic of responsible evangelization through digital media, Mr. Charles Izuoba urged social media users to verify information before sharing, post with a clear purpose, create evangelism-focused WhatsApp groups, and leverage these platforms for business promotion.
Mrs. Chinwe Ezediora spoke on “Building Faith and Values in the Family in the Digital Era.”
She emphasized that cultural, economic, and social values are essential in nurturing family faith.
She urged parents to use social media wisely and not allow young children access to Android phones or inappropriate content such as pornography.
Hon. Pathy Okafor, representing Onitsha North II in the Anambra State Assembly, acknowledged both the benefits and dangers of digital technology.
He called on users to exercise caution, noting that irresponsible use has led to social vices.
He commended Archbishop Okeke for organizing the event to educate the faithful on digital media.
Also speaking, Hon. Jude Akpua warned against excessive phone use, particularly among young people, pointing out its negative effects on concentration and personal relationships.
Rev. Fr. Samuel Nwankwo, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, expressed his deep appreciation to all participants, especially priests, religious leaders, parish delegates, school representatives, and government officials. He praised the dedication of his team and prayed for divine blessings upon everyone who contributed to the success of the event.
In a brief interview with journalists, the Press Secretary to Archbishop Okeke, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. George Adimike, reflected on the evolving nature of communication.
He emphasized that each new communication tool is a blessing to humanity.
He highlighted AI as the latest development in communication, urging its responsible use for evangelization. “AI is here to help mankind live a better life, but if misused, it could lead to serious consequences,” he warned.
