The 2025 Osun Digital Media Week continued on Thursday, December 4, 2025, with thought-provoking speeches, high-level engagements, and a renewed commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy through technology and artificial intelligence.
The event, held at Ben-Bar Event Hall, Osogbo, brought together top government officials, heads of agencies, digital media professionals, political actors, civil society organizations, and innovators.
Represented by Hon. Eniola Odeniyi, the Special Adviser on Public Engagement, Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke underscores the transformative impact of digital innovation on democracy.
“Technology and AI are redefining governance and communication. When used responsibly, these tools can reinforce credible elections, enhance transparency, and curb misinformation,” the governor noted.
Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening digital structures and collaborating with media stakeholders to ensure accurate public communication.
“Let us embrace technology as a tool that unites rather than divides,” he said.
Earlier, Mukhtar Ajelogbon, Chairman of the Osun Online Publishers Association (OOPA), had welcomed participants with a heartfelt address emphasizing the central role of digital media in modern governance. He described this year’s theme, “Harnessing Technology and Artificial Intelligence Towards Credible Elections and Information Dissemination in Nigeria”,as timely and necessary.
Ajelogbon highlighted OOPA’s achievements under his leadership, including capacity-building workshops, acquisition of an official secretariat, opening of the association’s official website and bank account, improved member welfare, strengthened media partnerships, and the expansion of the association members.
“We are the future of journalism, and the future is now,” he declared.
In his lecture, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, the Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, provides deep insights into how technology can revolutionize Nigeria’s electoral landscape.
Tracing INEC’s technological evolution from PVCs to BVAS and IReV, Agboke emphasized that artificial intelligence is the next critical frontier.
“AI will not replace human judgment; it will amplify precision, speed, and civic oversight,” he stated.
He urged digital publishers to take up their roles as factual gatekeepers, watchdogs against digital manipulation, and educators in an era of rising misinformation.
“Democracy cannot afford complacency,” he warned, calling for expanded collaboration between INEC and the digital media ecosystem.
Agboke outlined ongoing preparations for the 2026 Osun Governorship Election and assured the public that INEC is committed to strengthening electoral transparency.
While addressing the gathering, the General Manager of Osun CSDA, Mrs Funmi Abokede salutes the leadership of Osun Online Publishers Association for organising a public lecture centred on the credibile electoral process. She admonish on the need for the digital innovation in moving Nigeria forward
In his short remark, CMS of Shifauk Group of Hospitals, and Osun ADC governorship aspirant Dr Saliu Orisunlagba who offers free medical checkups throughout the event, acknowledged his rooth in journalism which influenced his love and support for Osun Online Publishers Association and media practitioners in general.
The event recorded the presence of notable figures across government, traditional institutions, and political circles, including: Kunle Rasheed Adegoke K-Rad (SAN), APC Governorship Aspirant – represented by Mr. Adelere Adegoke; Hon. Moshood Olagunju, Commissioner for Youth Affairs – represented by Hon. Aare Mojeed Oladimeji Special Assistant to the governor on Youth Affairs, and Hon. Moses Adewuyi Special Assistant on Youth Affairs
Stakeholders commended OOPA for driving conversations around credible elections, media integrity, and the responsible adoption of technology in governance.
A Convergence of Innovation, Integrity, and Civic Responsibility
Day 2 of the Digital Media Week featured a free medical outreach by Shifauk Group of Hospitals, further showcasing OOPA’s commitment to community welfare. With a refresher course for members scheduled for Day 3, the event continues to consolidate the association’s role as a leader in digital journalism and civic engagement.
The 2025 Osun Digital Media Week continues to stand out as a strategic convergence of ideas, innovation, and institutional collaboration, laying the groundwork for a more informed and technologically-driven democratic society.
