Social media monetisation and socio-economic development among youths in Bayelsa

Abstract

This study assessed the level of awareness, factors that influence the engagement and perception regarding the influence of social media monetisation on socio-economic development among youths in Bayelsa. Technological Determinism Theoryserved as the theoretical framework for this study. The survey was used as theresearch design for this study. The projected population of this study was approximately 1,533,586 youths between 15 and 35 years in Bayelsa for 2023 using the Geometric Population Projection Formula at a 2.6% growth rate. A sample size of 385 respondents was determined using the Survey Monkeyonlinesample size calculator at a 95% confidence level and 5% error level. Purposive sampling was employed for this study to select youths active on social media, most likely to engage in socio-economic activities through these platforms. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. The study found that majority (67.34%) of the respondents are aware of social media monetisation. Economic motives, especially the desire for additional income and entrepreneurial opportunities, are primary motivators to engage in social media monetisation. Social media monetisation is a contributor to economic opportunities for youths in Bayelsa state. The mostrecognised contribution is the creation of money-making opportunities (40.40%). The researchers recommend that the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy as well as the Bayelsa State Government should enhance awareness and knowledge of social media monetisation through training and education programmes, facilitate access to technical resources and skills development.