Abstract

One of the best new developments on the web has been that of social networks. As an online service platform that focuses on facilitating the building of social relations among people who share interests, activities and real life connections, analysts of this trend posit that it is beneficial to the society. Such benefits are multifarious ranging from exchange of ideas and information, furtherance of one’s career, research openings/opportunities on a wide range of issues, to learning of new cultures and so forth. Notwithstanding the benefits, its abuse and negative impact on core Nigerian values should not be ignored. This work is therefore committed to highlighting notable examples of social networking abuse within the Nigerian milieu. It strongly contends that the abuse of social networking among Nigerian youths is unacceptable as it has caused a gradual coarsening of our cultural values and, further suggests that rather than being xenocentric, Nigerians should sift from this globalizing culture, the best of its advantages and blend same with our core values for good.