Muslim faithful have been urged to embrace new media technologies as tools for promoting Islamic teachings, while exercising caution to avoid misuse that could fuel division or misinformation.
The call was made by Professor Umar Pate, Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Kashere, during the inauguration of newly elected executives of the Adamawa Muslim Council held on Sunday in Yola.
Pate said the rapid expansion of internet access and digital platforms has transformed global communication, enabling instant interaction across continents. He described the development as an opportunity for constructive engagement and faith-based outreach.
He also drew attention to the changing nature of work driven by artificial intelligence and automation, noting that although millions of jobs may be lost in the coming years, technological innovation is also expected to generate new employment opportunities.
“The impact of new media depends on how it is used,” he said. “When used constructively, it can promote virtue, but when abused, it can cause serious harm.”
Pate advised Muslims to avoid hate speech, fake news and the circulation of misleading information, stressing the need for digital competence to ensure effective and ethical use of online platforms.
He said proper understanding of new media could support religious propagation, coordination, public communication and skills acquisition.
Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, represented by the Commissioner for Housing, Alhaji Abdullahi Pranbe, urged the newly inaugurated executives to lead with fairness and justice. He also called on Islamic scholars to promote the faith without bias and to moderate their language when addressing followers.
The governor praised the Muslim Council for its contributions to peace and social harmony in the state.
The Lamido of Adamawa, Alhaji Barkindo Mustapha, through his representative, Alhaji Ahmed Rufa’i, congratulated the executives and encouraged them to strengthen unity among Muslims to advance Islamic teachings.
Accepting the mandate, the council’s chairman, Alhaji Gambo Jika, thanked Muslim groups for their continued trust and pledged to work towards unity, development and effective leadership.
