From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has taken a significant step towards digitizing its communication system by training information officers on the strategic use of social media for public engagement, in a bid to modernize governance and strengthen its connection with citizens.
In his opening remarks, State Commissioner of Information and Orientation, Alhaji Sambo Bello Danchadi, commends Khadilad Support Services Ltd for partnering with the Ministry of Information and Orientation to train government officials on effective communication strategies, particularly in the digital age.
The workshop aims to equip officers with modern communication skills, digital media literacy, and ethical standards to use social media responsibly and promote government achievements.
He highlights the importance of accurate information dissemination and urges participants to take the training seriously and apply the skills learned to improve their communication work.
The goal is to showcase Sokoto State’s developmental strides and counter false narratives with facts, professionalism, and creativity.
The three-day capacity-building workshop, themed “Amplifying Government Communication: Embracing Social Media for Public Communication,” opened on Monday at Dankani Guest Palace, Sokoto, with top government officials and communication experts calling for responsible and proactive use of digital platforms.
Muhammad Nasir Ladan, MD of Khadilad Support Services Ltd, emphasizes the importance of social media in shaping narratives and influencing citizens.
He notes that while social media can spread misinformation, it can also be used to promote positive narratives and engage citizens in governance.
The company is collaborating with the Sokoto State Government to train information officers and social media influencers to promote positive stories, correct misconceptions, and enhance the state’s online presence.
The training aims to equip participants with the skills to navigate social media, create engaging content, and promote the state’s interests.
Khadilad Support Services will provide ongoing support and mentorship to ensure sustainability and effectiveness.
The initiative aims to boost the state’s public image, foster digital literacy, and promote economic growth and tourism.
The Special Guest of Honour,Malam Sani Umar, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Online Media, commended the initiative as a strategic move to enhance the state’s digital communication framework.
“The public space today is driven by conversations, not monologues. This training will ensure that our information officers are not only disseminating facts but also engaging citizens constructively and transparently,” he said.
The workshop will expose participants to key aspects of digital communication, including content creation, analytics, and crisis management, with a view to strengthening Sokoto State’s online visibility and public trust in governance.
He commends the Ministry of Information and Orientation for organizing a capacity-building program on social media communication for government officials.
While emphasize the importance of effective communication in governance, particularly in the digital age, and highlight the role of information officers in bridging the gap between the government and the public.
Stressed the need for transparency, accountability, and people-centered engagement, and encourages officials to leverage social media strategically to promote government achievements and build public trust.
Also acknowledge the challenges of social media and the importance of responsible communication, urging participants to apply the skills and insights gained from the training to improve their work.
