Nigeria took a historic step in its digital journey on Saturday as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, officially launched Nigeria’s first indigenous social networking platform, 2geda.
The Ooni described the launch as a bold step towards strengthening the nation’s digital sovereignty and empowering the younger generation.
The unveiling ceremony on Saturday, August 16, at Ilaji Resort and Hotel in Ibadan, Oyo State, brought together leading figures from government, traditional institutions, and technology sectors, marking a new chapter in Nigeria’s quest for digital independence.
Addressing the event’s audience, the Ooni described the 2geda initiative as a bold demonstration of Nigerian ingenuity and innovation.
He emphasised that the platform proves that the nation’s youths have the creativity and talent to build solutions that can compete globally, provided they receive the right encouragement and investment.
“We must give our youths every opportunity to thrive if we want Nigeria to rise again. They are intelligent, innovative, and full of potential. With collective support, platforms like 2geda will not only survive but also grow to compete with international giants such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Snapchat, and others,” the monarch said passionately.
The revered monarch appealed directly to the Federal Government, State Governments, traditional leaders, and philanthropists, urging them to unite in supporting initiatives like 2geda.
According to him, such investments go beyond technology—they strengthen national pride, empower the next generation, and firmly place Nigeria on the global digital innovation map.
In his goodwill message, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting projects that build Nigeria’s digital sovereignty.
He explained that 2geda is more than just another social network—a cultural institution designed to protect identity, promote values, and ensure that Nigerians have a safe and trusted platform to connect.
“National development cannot flourish without digital sovereignty,” Tunji-Ojo Ojo declared.
“What makes 2geda unique is that it is built not just for communication but for culture, security, and belonging.
“It provides a homegrown space where Nigerians, both at home and abroad, can share, interact, and express themselves in line with our values.”
The minister assured that the Federal Government will partner with private innovators and entrepreneurs to grow Nigeria’s digital economy.
He described 2geda as an “institution of the future” capable of competing with global technology platforms while telling Nigeria’s story in Nigeria’s own voice.
“As we unveil this platform today, I urge every Nigerian to embrace it. The digital ecosystem we build now will shape what our children and future generations inherit. Let us contribute positively and ensure that this innovation thrives,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Hauwa Ringim, Acting Director of the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), said the launch of 2geda was historic and strategic in the fight against cybercrime.
She emphasised that social media has become a double-edged sword—while it offers opportunities for creativity and connection, it is also being exploited by criminals.
“We are not here simply to celebrate the birth of Nigeria’s first indigenous social media website.
“We are here to reflect on how to use platforms like 2geda to protect our society from cybercrime.
“EFCC has used global social media networks to strengthen its anti-fraud campaigns for years. A Nigerian-owned platform adds another opportunity to safeguard our digital space,” Ringim explained.
She noted that Nigerian youths are highly creative and capable of producing technologies that can stand out globally.
According to her, embracing 2geda is also about taking ownership of technology and ensuring it is used for development rather than criminality.
“Social media is here to stay. Do we allow criminals to dominate it, or do we seize the space to protect and empower our people? Platforms like 2geda are vital in ensuring that technology works for us and not against us,” she added.
The unveiling of 2geda is widely regarded as a game-changer in Nigeria’s digital and cultural evolution. Unlike foreign platforms, 2geda was built from scratch by Nigerians for Nigerians to create a safe, innovative, and culturally rooted digital environment.
The platform is designed for social interaction and as a hub for national identity, cultural preservation, technological independence, and youth empowerment.
Stakeholders believe it could provide an alternative to foreign-owned networks while also symbolising pride in Nigeria’s digital creativity.