Title: Social Media Influence on Public Perception of Niger Delta Development Commission in Rivers State
Authors: Awaa-Fred, Annabel Nyime, Dr. Harcourt Dike Whyte, Dr. Sarah Chidiebere Joe
Volume: 9
Issue: 12
Pages: 139-150
Publication Date: 2025/12/28
Abstract:
This study investigates the role of social media narratives in shaping public perception of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) among residents of Port Harcourt City Local Government Area. The research was guided by two objectives: to examine how often residents are exposed to NDDC stories on social media; to determine the types of stories encountered. The study is anchored on two theoretical frameworks, the Narrative Theory of Media and the Echo Chamber Theory. Methodologically, the study adopted a survey design with a target population of approximately 5,000,000 residents, with a sample size of 400 respondents gotten through the use of Taro Yamane formular. A stratified random sampling technique was employed to ensure representation across diverse groups. From a sample size of 400, 340 valid responses were retrieved and analysed quantitatively. Findings reveal that residents are frequently exposed to NDDC-related stories on social media, though engagement remains largely passive. Narratives of corruption and mismanagement dominate coverage and exert stronger influence than developmental or community engagement stories. The study concludes that social media functions as both a vital communication channel and a constraint on institutional credibility, given the dominance of negative narratives. It recommends strengthening strategic communication, promoting balanced narratives in the NDDC.