Bloggers and social media influencers have been encouraged to harness the opportunities of digital economy while upholding ethical and professional standards. This call was made by the Director-General of the Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency (PLASMIDA), Bomkam Ali Wuyep, during a two-day workshop held in partnership with the Plateau Bloggers Online Media Association (PLABOMA) on March 17 and 18, 2025.

With the theme “Ethical Blogging, Digitalj Media Strategies, and Entrepreneurship,” the event brought together PLABOMA members, conventional media practitioners, PLASMIDA officials, social media influencers, and online journalists to discuss best practices in digital media and entrepreneurship.

Director-General Bomkam Ali Wuyep highlighted the growing influence of bloggers in the digital economy. He stressed the need for financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills, reaffirming the Plateau State Government’s commitment to small business development through Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s Seven-Pillar Policy.

“Bloggers are not just information disseminators; you are catalysts for change, influencers of opinions, and key drivers of economic transformation,” Wuyep said.

He noted that PLASMIDA is expanding training opportunities beyond business owners to include youths, women, and professional associations, all aimed at poverty reduction.

“The Plateau Job Center is bridging the skills gap, linking job seekers with employers, and fostering entrepreneurship with support from international donor partners.”

He also urged bloggers to counter misinformation and uphold journalistic ethics.

“In an era where misinformation spreads like wildfire, I urge you to uphold ethics, fairness, and objectivity in your reportage.”

In his opening remarks, PLABOMA Chairman Matthew Tegha emphasized the crucial role of bloggers in shaping narratives and fostering responsible digital journalism. He underscored the importance of truth, accuracy, and sustainability in media practice.

“We are not just storytellers; we are influencers, educators, and agents of change. However, with this influence comes great responsibility,” Tegha stated.
“This training is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to ethical journalism, explore digital media strategies, and build sustainability in our work. Let’s use this platform to network, collaborate, and chart a new course for impactful digital media practice in Plateau State and beyond.”

The Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Charles Odii, encouraged bloggers to leverage their platforms to support MSME growth while maintaining accuracy and integrity.

“As digital journalists, your responsibility goes beyond reporting news; you are the bridge between the government and the people, shaping public perception and holding institutions accountable,” Odii noted.

Gyang Bere, Director of Press to the Plateau State Governor, represented by Chief Information Officer Hana Paul Gindiri, acknowledged the evolving perception of online journalism.

“In the past, online journalism was often associated with fake news. But with trainings like this, the narrative is changing. Let your story angles reflect the Governor’s efforts in security, economic development, and creating a business-friendly environment. Changing the narrative is crucial—bloggers should not be swayed by little stepends.”

Dalog Da Yakubu Tadi, Chairman of the Plateau State Traditional Council and a PLABOMA Trustee, stressed the importance of fact-checking and ethical journalism.

“Entrepreneurship now goes beyond physical businesses; people rely on online platforms to assess what a state or country has to offer,” he said.

He also urged politicians to prioritize tangible actions over press statements and called for signed press reports to enhance credibility.

“There should be personified stories for credibility—every press report should be properly signed and attributed, not just to a body but also to a person.”

Major Samson Zhakom, representing Maj. Gen. EF Oyinlola of Operation Safe Heaven (OPSH) commended PLABOMA for fostering responsible reporting, highlighting the impact of online media on security, investment, and tourism.

“Information online can bring or discourage foreign investment, tourism, and film productions. So let’s be careful about the image we are building,” he cautioned.

Participants engaged in sessions on business planning and strategy led by Mr. Jacks of PLASMIDA, ethical blogging and digital media strategies led by Matthew Tegha of PLABOMA, and SWOT analysis presented by Mrs Jennifer and other key topics designed to help participants build credibility, prevent misinformation, avoid legal risks, and enhance professionalism.

A key highlight was the presentation of certificates to participants and a guided tour of the Plateau Job Center. The center, a government initiative to tackle unemployment, has successfully matched over 40 job seekers with employers.

Representing the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Vice Chairman Pam Musa commended PLABOMA’s professionalism and revealed plans to integrate the association into the NUJ structure.

“Based on the new NUJ constitution, we are looking to make PLABOMA associate members while ensuring they maintain and improve their professionalism.”

Chairman of the Correspondent Chapel, Polycarp Auta commended bloggers for their efforts in shaping journalistic narrative in Plateau State.

“Journalism is ever changing which comes with various challenges especially for online media practitioners who have to balance speed and credibility. Digital platforms have made information more accessible, placing a responsibility on bloggers to maintain ethical standards. Trust in online media relies on accuracy and thorough verification.”

Prince Daniel John Bok, Interim Chairman of the Plateau State Publishers Association, commended PLABOMA’s efforts in expanding the role of digital journalism beyond traditional reporting.

“I commend PLABOMA for tapping into improving the economy of the state beyond limiting their role to conventional news reporting. This initiative pushes the media industry to broaden its scope, highlighting digital platforms as tools not only for storytelling but also for economic and professional advancement.”

The workshop reinforced the importance of ethical blogging, digital media innovation, and entrepreneurship, equipping participants with the skills to enhance professionalism and contribute to economic development.