Role of Digital Platforms in Promoting Inclusivity in Social Engagement in Ibadan,Oyo State,South-West Nigeria

This study examines the impact of digital platforms in promoting inclusivity in social engagement platforms across the thirteen local government areas of Ibadan in the southwest. The specific objectives are to investigate the role of digital platforms in promoting inclusivity in social engagement, particularly for underrepresented groups such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities. The study made use of both descriptive and inferential methods of analysis. The study sample comprises individuals and groups actively or potentially engaging with digital platforms across the thirteen local government areas, Ibadan in the South-West. This includes students, educators, small and medium-sized business owners, entrepreneurs engaged in e-commerce, and rural and urban residents. Findings revealed that there is a need for stakeholders, including policymakers, digital platform providers, and community leaders, to collaborate in addressing barriers to digital access. By doing so, they can harness the full potential of digital platforms to drive equitable social inclusion and sustainable development across South-West Nigeria. This study concludes that digital platforms play a pivotal role in enhancing social inclusion in South-West Nigeria by improving access to education, fostering economic participation, promoting inclusivity in social engagement, and reducing digital inequality and therefore the study recommended that continuous monitoring and evaluation of digital inclusion initiatives should be conducted to identify gaps, measure progress, and refine strategies to achieve sustainable and impactful social inclusion outcomes. By implementing these recommendations, the transformative potential of digital platforms can be fully harnessed to create a more inclusive and equitable society in South-West Nigeria.