Press Statement

The Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA), the umbrella body of social media practitioners in Plateau State and a duly registered organization with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), wishes to draw the attention of the general public to a purported Plateau State Social Media Award currently being promoted online.

The Association has observed with concern that this so-called award lacks credibility, transparency, and the necessary professional standards required to represent the collective voice and interests of the social media community in Plateau State. As the recognized custodian of this community—by virtue of our broad-based membership comprising most known platforms, bloggers, online media practitioners, and influencers across the state—PLABOMA affirms that the said award does not have the endorsement, input, or approval of the Association.

We therefore call on responsible individuals, brands, organizations, and the general public to disregard any award presently circulating under the name “Plateau State Social Media Award,” as it falls short of acceptable standards and credibility. Evidence available to us suggests that the promoters of this initiative are not driven by professional integrity but by personal gain, with the intention of exploiting unsuspecting Plateau sons and daughters.

Furthermore, the claim by the organizers that the award seeks to recognize individuals, brands, and initiatives leveraging social media to add value to the ICT and digital technology ecosystem in Plateau State raises serious questions about their competence and capacity. The organizers are neither recognized social media practitioners nor trained professionals within the digital media space, unlike members of our Association who are subject to professional standards, ethical guidelines, and continuous capacity development.

It is also important to note that previous editions of similar initiatives were organized by an individual who was then an executive member of this Association. His recent public disclaimer further casts doubt on the intentions and legitimacy of the new group behind the current initiative, reinforcing concerns that the exercise is designed to exploit rather than genuinely recognize excellence.

This clarification has become necessary in view of the consistent and credible work the Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association has carried out over the years to sanitize, professionalize, and give due recognition to the digital media space in Plateau State. Guided by our motto—“Promoting credible, ethical online reporting and practices”—the Association has continued to partner with government agencies, organizations, and businesses to project Plateau State positively and responsibly.

The Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association remains committed to upholding integrity, professionalism, and ethical standards in the digital media landscape of Plateau State.

SIGNED:

Ibrahim Kallamu

Secretary,

Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA)