The Catholic Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Rev. Gabriel 'Leke Abegunrin, has issued a strong warning to young people, urging them not to allow technology, social media trends, and digital algorithms to erode their humanity, values, and sense of identity.
Abegunrin made the call during a press conference and workshop organized to mark the 2026 Communication Week of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, which was themed, 'Preserving Human Voices and Faces.' The cleric expressed deep concern that many young people now measure their self-worth through online approval and virtual attention, warning that such dependence could have damaging emotional and social consequences.
'Use technology, but do not allow technology to control your mind, your values, your emotions or your sense of identity,' he said. 'Do not become prisoners of trends. Do not measure your worth only by online approval. Do not lose real relationships while chasing virtual attention. Your humanity is more valuable than algorithms.'
According to the Archbishop, the rapid advancement of digital technology and artificial intelligence has transformed communication globally, but has also created a dangerous culture where people are increasingly treated as 'content' instead of human beings. He noted that while people are more digitally connected than ever before, many individuals are becoming emotionally isolated and lonely.
'We live in a world where information moves faster than reflection. Everybody is speaking, but not many are truly listening anymore. We are connected to many people digitally, yet many hearts are becoming lonely,' he said.
Abegunrin stressed that communication should remain centred on truth, responsibility and human dignity rather than sensationalism, hostility and online popularity. The Archbishop also warned against the spread of fake news, hate speech and careless social media posts, noting that unethical communication could damage lives, reputations and social harmony.
'One careless post can destroy a reputation. One false report can create tension in society. One manipulated story can damage lives,' he said.
He urged young people and media practitioners to use digital platforms responsibly and ensure that communication tools promote peace, hope and social healing rather than division. Abegunrin further disclosed that the Archdiocese is strengthening its communication apostolate through the development of a new website, media studio and digital evangelisation projects aimed at expanding the Church’s responsible presence online. He added that the Church would continue to advocate ethical communication practices that preserve human dignity in the digital age.
