In the rising spread of fake news and misinformation, social media influencers have been reminded that their credibility depends on the accuracy of the information they share online.
Abiodun Ajayi, the State Advocacy Coordinator of the Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI), gave this charge during a capacity building workshop for influencers on Gender, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Family Planning (FP), and Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent Health plus Nutrition (RMNCAH+N).
He urged influencers to prioritize accuracy over speed, noting that misinformation spreads faster than the truth and can cause lasting damage.
Ajayi emphasized that influence without responsibility can be harmful. “Verification is the first step to credibility,” he said. “When people know they can trust what you share, you become more than an influencer you become a voice of authority. But that trust begins with checking your facts before posting.”
According to him, being deliberate about verifying sources, cross-checking facts, and referencing credible organizations is what separates responsible content creators from opportunistic ones.
Ajayi further encouraged the adoption of solutions journalism, a model of storytelling that focuses on how people and institutions are solving problems rather than just highlighting failures.
“Don’t use your platform to only criticize or amplify negative news,” he said. “Show your audience what is working, where help exists, and how they can take action.”
The State Advocacy Coordinator of CCSI also highlighted the importance of clear and simple language in digital advocacy.
He emphasised that technical jargon will alienate audiences, while accessible communication helps people understand and act. Participants were introduced to actionable messages, providing helplines, and linking followers to verified health resources.
Participants pledged to apply the lessons in their online work, committing to verify information, promote positive health-seeking behavior, and tell stories that inspire action rather than fear. The workshop reinforced CCSI’s message that credibility online is not claimed but earned, one verified post at a time.