The Bodex Social Media Hangout (BSMH) 3.0, held on July 31, 2022, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in GRA, Ikeja, Lagos, brought together a stellar lineup of speakers to discuss the transformative power of social media in Nigeria and beyond. Organized by Volt Media Advisory and convened by Florence ‘Bodex’ Hungbo, the event aimed to harness social media as a tool for nation-building, fostering dialogue on its impact across politics, business, culture, education, mental health, and more. Hungbo emphasized, “Social media is fast becoming one of the best information and collaboration tools all over the world,” underscoring the need to guide users on its responsible use for societal progress.
High-Profile Speakers and Diverse Topics
The event featured prominent figures, including:
- Gbenga Omotoso, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy
- Segun Awosanya (Segalinks), Convener of #EndSARS Reformpoliceng, President of Social Intervention Advocacy Foundation (SIAF), and CEO of Aliensmedia Limited
- Pamilerin Adegoke, Digital Enthusiast
- Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy, NDLEA
- Kolawole Osinowo, CEO of Baobab+ Nigeria
- Damilola Otubanjo, MD/CEO of Milolar Group
- Bolaji Adebiyi, Managing Editor of ThisDay Newspapers
- Ramon Olanrewaju Nasir, Group Head, External Relations and Media, UBA
- Fidelis Duker, Filmmaker and Group CEO of Fad Media Group
- Adetokunbo Modupe, Founder of TPT International Limited
- Aproko Doctor (Chinomso Egemba), Health Advocate
- Japhet Omojuwa, Author and Media Practitioner
- Aralola Oluwamuyiwa, First Female Talking Drummer
- Esan Sunday Emmanuel, Senior General Manager, Dangote Industries Limited
- Osayuwamen P. Saleh, Media Entrepreneur and TV Host
- Adebayo Adedeji, CEO of Wakanow
- Efe Omorogbe, Creative Entrepreneur
- Olamilekan ‘King Pexxie’ Bamidele, Principal Partner, Lekan Bamidele & Co
These experts engaged in sessions on topics like social selling, the impact of social media on law enforcement, curbing fake news, regulating social media, 21st-century parenting, mental health, and the 2023 Nigerian elections. Hungbo noted that the discussions aimed to “educate attendees on how best to use social media to increase personal, communal, and national value while redefining the narrative.”
A Free, Inclusive Media Celebration
BSMH 3.0 stood out as a free event, requiring only registration, with Hungbo explaining, “This is our own way of giving back to the society, so we all can continue with the good work in the media space.” Held at the luxurious Radisson Blu, the event offered a buffet, drinks, and take-home gifts, fostering a sense of community among digital and traditional media personalities, stakeholders, and fans. It was live-streamed to include Diaspora audiences, with representatives from five countries discussing social media’s global impact. Hungbo emphasized, “Anyone who is media-aligned is meant to be pampered and appreciated because without one another, there can’t be US.”
Star-Studded Entertainment and Guests
The event was hosted by comedian Gbenga Adeyinka as the main anchor, with media personality Denrele Edun leading the green carpet session. Entertainment featured performances by Akohun Badagry Dancers, Skales, Humblesmith, Jaywon, GKB Unicycle Academy, Ara, Wale Thompson, and DJ Kexzy. Special guests included Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (retd), Chairman of the NDLEA, and Ambassador Darkey Africa, South Africa Consul-General, adding prestige to the occasion.
Impact and Legacy
BSMH 3.0, themed “Social Media X – Redefining the Narrative,” was praised for its high-profile speakers and engaging discussions, as reported by Vanguard News and The Guardian Nigeria. Attendees left with insights on leveraging social media for positive impact, with X posts lauding the event’s organization and inclusivity. Hungbo’s vision of uniting media practitioners for civic engagement and global outreach set the stage for future editions, with plans for international expansions. The event’s success, marked by its vibrant atmosphere and impactful conversations, reinforced its role as a pivotal platform for Nigeria’s media landscape.
