Perceived Influence of Social Media Use on Child-Rights Advocacy in Ondo State

Abstract

This study investigates the perceived influence of social media use on child-rights advocacy in Ondo State. The study is guided by five objectives and is anchored on the Agenda-Setting Media Theory (McCombs & Shaw, 1972) and Social Marketing Theory (Kotler & Zaltman, 1971). A survey method was adopted, with a population of 1,440 and a sample of 360 respondents. Findings revealed that respondents are well aware of child-rights advocacy through social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp, which are more frequently used than traditional communication channels like radio, television, and newspapers. The study established that social media platforms provide opportunities for users to participate in discussions, expose children to their rights, and enlighten adults on child-rights violations. However, challenges such as the cost of smartphones, data expenses, power outages, internet service failures, and lack of interest from some bloggers were identified (Oyero & Salawu, 2018). Recommendations include increased enlightenment on child-rights, stronger justice systems to address violations, and policy measures to reduce import duties on smartphones and improve power supply (UNICEF, 2017).