SOCIAL MEDIA AND NIGERIA POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT: AN ASSESSMENT OF THE NIGERIA 2023 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION.

Abstract

This paper examined the influence of social media on political development in Nigeria with a particular focus on the 2023 presidential election. Social media is increasingly becoming relevant and has always played a key role in shaping political behavior and environment of modern democracies and the Nigeria 2023 presidential election was no exception. This study accessed materials through secondary sources by consulting already existing literature such as journals, books and newspapers to better understand the issue under review which was also augmented with a descriptive research design . The study adopted Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) theory to better explain or point that that the reason behind the general acceptance and increase in the use of social media in the 2023 presidential election in Nigeria is because of simplicity and usefulness for communication and spread of information or opinion. The study finds that social media is a relevant tool for political development in Nigeria as seen in the 2023 presidential election were it helped to sensitize, educate and arouse the consciousness of the masses. The study recommend among others that the use of social media as a tool for political engagement and participation should be encourage and promoted by the Nigeria government. Political parties and candidates should leverage these platforms to engage with the electorate, share their policies, and address concerns directly.