The 2025 Osun Digital Media Week entered its second day on Thursday, December 4, 2025, with powerful speeches, high-level engagements, and renewed calls for the deployment of technology and artificial intelligence in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
Held at the Ben-Bar Event Hall, Osogbo, the event drew top government officials, electoral stakeholders, digital media professionals, civil society organizations, and innovators.
Represented by the Special Adviser on Public Engagement, Hon. Eniola Odeniyi, Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke said digital innovation has become a defining force in governance and communication.
“Technology and AI are redefining governance and communication. When used responsibly, these tools can reinforce credible elections, enhance transparency, and curb misinformation,” he said, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to digital infrastructure and media collaboration. “Let us embrace technology as a tool that unites rather than divides.”
Earlier, the Chairman of the Osun Online Publishers Association (OOPA), Mukhtar Ajelogbon, welcomed participants with a passionate address, describing digital media as central to democratic development.
He said the 2025 theme, “Harnessing Technology and Artificial Intelligence Towards Credible Elections and Information Dissemination in Nigeria”, was both timely and strategic.
Ajelogbon outlined OOPA’s achievements under his leadership, including capacity-building initiatives, the acquisition of a secretariat, the launch of its official website and bank account, improved welfare, and membership expansion. “We are the future of journalism, and the future is now,” he declared.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, examined the transformative role of technology in Nigeria’s electoral system.
Tracing INEC’s evolution from PVCs to BVAS and IReV, Agboke said artificial intelligence represents the “next critical frontier” in election management. “AI will not replace human judgment; it will amplify precision, speed, and civic oversight,” he noted, urging digital publishers to serve as “factual gatekeepers” in an era of weaponized misinformation.
He also highlighted preparations for the 2026 Osun Governorship Election, assuring the public of INEC’s commitment to transparency.
The General Manager of Osun CSDA, Mrs. Funmi Abokede, commended OOPA for organizing a lecture centered on credible electoral processes, adding that digital innovation holds the key to national progress.
In a brief remark, CMS of Shifauk Group of Hospitals and ADC governorship aspirant, Dr. Saliu Orisunlagba, who provided free medical checkups at the venue, acknowledged his roots in journalism and pledged continued support to the media industry.
The event attracted several dignitaries, 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 and Hon. Moses Adewuyi)
Stakeholders applauded OOPA for driving national conversations around credible elections, media integrity, and responsible adoption of technology in governance. Community Impact and Continuing Activities.
Day 2 of the Digital Media Week also featured a free medical outreach by Shifauk Group of Hospitals, reflecting OOPA’s commitment to community welfare.
With a refresher course for members scheduled for Day 3, the event continues to consolidate the association’s reputation as a leader in digital journalism, innovation, and civic engagement.
As activities continue, the 2025 Osun Digital Media Week stands out as a convergence of ideas and institutional collaboration, setting the stage for a more informed, inclusive, and technologically-driven democratic society.
