The Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, has urged youths to use digital technology responsibly by promoting righteousness to safeguard their moral future and promote positive values in society.

Mr Abubakar made the call while chairing the 20th Annual Ramadan Lecture organised by the Nigerian Television Authority, the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, and Voice of Nigeria on Saturday in Kaduna.

The Etsu Nupe said that the theme of the lecture “Digital Technology and the Moral Future of the Youth” was timely, stressing that while technology offers opportunities for learning, connection and growth, it also exposes youths to harmful content and behaviours.

Mr Abubakar said that over the past two decades, Nigeria and the world had experienced significant transformations, particularly in digital technology, with both positive and negative impacts on society.

He said Islam views technology as a tool for promoting knowledge and societal good, urging Muslims to remain vigilant about the content they consume and the values they uphold in the digital age.

According to him, youths should be mindful of their digital footprint, protect their character and use technology to spread positivity, compassion and justice.

“As Muslims, we believe that our actions will be judged by Allah (SWT), and we will be accountable for how we used the tools and opportunities He provided.

“Let us, therefore, strive to use digital technology wisely, promoting righteousness, compassion, and justice.

“To our youths, I say: Be mindful of your digital footprint, protect your character, and use technology to spread positivity and goodness”, he said.

Earlier, the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu-Bamalli, commended the organisers of the lecture and the special guest who graced the occasion.

In his welcome address, the director-general, VON, Jibrin Baba- Ndace, said the role of digital technology in shaping the morals of youths cannot be overemphasised.

He explained that the theme was intentionally picked to discuss the way forward in ensuring that youths use technology to their advantage while upholding moral values.

The managing director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ali M. Ali, was among the eminent personalities who attended the epochal event. 

(NAN)