The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has officially unveiled 2geda, which he described as Nigeria’s first indigenous social media network, urging government and private sector stakeholders to support the platform’s growth into a global success.
The launch took place on Saturday at Ilaji Resort and Hotel, Ibadan, where the Ooni emphasized the need to back Nigerian youth in their innovative pursuits.
“We must support our youths to make Nigeria great again. They are intelligent, innovative, and they need our support. I appeal to the Federal Government, our state governors, traditional rulers, and philanthropists to support this initiative so it can grow to the level of Facebook, WhatsApp, Snapchat and others,” the Ooni said.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, praised the platform as a tool rooted in Nigeria’s culture and digital sovereignty, highlighting the government’s readiness to support a strong digital economy.
“National development cannot thrive without digital sovereignty. The Federal Government is ready to support a strong digital economy platform like 2geda… This platform provides a safe and relevant space for Nigerians to connect, share and build together,” he stated.
He further encouraged Nigerians to embrace the innovation, contribute to its growth, and shape a digital future reflective of the nation’s identity.
In her goodwill message, Hauwa Ringim, Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC Ibadan Office, urged Nigerian youths to use social media positively rather than for cybercrime.
“We are not just here to celebrate the launch of 2geda, we are here to reflect on the uses of social media to curb cybercrime in our society. Nigerian youths are creative, talented and innovative. They should be seen as creators of technology that will be accepted globally,” she noted.
The unveiling of 2geda marks a major step in Nigeria’s push for technological independence, youth empowerment, and digital innovation.
