Nigerian music star and humanitarian, Waje, has made a powerful appeal for a more respectful and responsible digital culture. She stressed the significant influence public figures wield in determining social behaviour, especially among the youth.
Addressing Power at the Governors' Spouses Forum
Waje delivered her message on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at the 6th Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum Conference held in Abuja. The event brought together wives of state governors, policymakers, development experts, and social advocates to deliberate on issues affecting women, children, and young people nationwide.
The annual forum, now in its sixth year, focuses on strengthening advocacy for women's empowerment, healthcare, education, youth development, and social welfare. Waje, known for her activism in gender equity and youth protection, participated in a session exploring how cultural influencers can bolster national development.
The Weight of the Digital Word
Speaking on the power of digital culture, Waje observed that attitudes reinforced online frequently spill over into offline conduct. She pointed out that content creators and public personalities, particularly men with large followings, play a pivotal role in setting social norms.
According to her, their style of engagement, choice of language, and response to inappropriate behaviour can either cement harmful stereotypes or promote more respectful interactions. Waje explained that while institutions create policies to tackle social inequality, genuine cultural change demands consistent individual action.
A Special Call to Male Influencers
Waje singled out male influencers for a particularly important role, given the weight their opinions carry with younger male audiences. She noted that a dismissive comment or joke can normalise damaging behaviour, just as a clear, public stance against misconduct can help discourage it.
She emphasised that calling out problematic behaviour does not need to be confrontational, stating that educational interventions often have a deeper impact. When respected men publicly declare certain behaviours unacceptable, it can shift cultural attitudes faster than prolonged debates, she argued.
Waje also encouraged male creators to help amplify women's voices on critical issues like harassment, domestic abuse, and inequality. This support, she said, should be expressed by standing beside women rather than speaking over them, allowing their experiences to take centre stage while reinforcing respect and empathy. Such conduct sets a healthy standard for younger audiences.
Aligning with Broader Conference Goals
Her contribution resonated with the conference's overarching theme: sustainable progress depends not only on government action but on deliberate efforts by individuals with cultural sway. Participants agreed that shifting social norms requires collaboration between institutions and the public, especially in a digital age where online conduct increasingly shapes real-world attitudes.
