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Influence of Social Media Algorithms on News Consumption among Imo Youths: A Study of Obowo Facebook Users

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Abstract

Imo State, focusing on Facebook users in Obowo Local Government Area. Anchored on Algorithmic Gatekeeping Theory and Uses and Gratifications Theory, the study adopted a survey research design. Data were collected from 312 respondents using structured questionnaires. Analysis revealed that social media algorithms significantly shape news exposure patterns, credibility evaluation, and engagement behaviours such as liking, sharing, and commenting on posts. Findings further indicated that personalised news feeds influence the type of content youths encounter, while algorithm-driven distribution may limit exposure to diverse viewpoints, fostering selective information consumption. The study concluded that social media algorithms play a critical role in shaping youth news behaviour in digital environments. It recommended that youths enhance digital media literacy, social media platforms improve algorithmic transparency, and educators and stakeholders promote responsible news consumption practices to mitigate the effects of biased or filtered content on information access and critical thinking.

Keywords & Additional Information

Keywords

DigitalAlgorithmicFacebookSocial MediaObowo LGA

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Author Information

Peter Nnadozie Dibia

@dibiabest016

Department of Mass Communication, Imo State University, Owerri
Nigeria
Contributors

Obangham Mbang Etiowo

Department of Mass Communication, Imo State University, Owerri

Onyekachi Onyejiaka

Department of Mass Communication, Imo State University, Owerri

Maria Amomoh Aigbadonor

Department of Mass Communication, Imo State University, Owerri

Chinemerem Lucy Nwannenaya

Department of Mass Communication, Federal University Oye Ekiti

Publication Details

Volume 2, Issue 1

Year 2026

Pages:378-386
Published:Thu Apr 30 2026
Last Updated:Fri May 08 2026
Influence of Social Media Algorithms on News Consumption among Imo Youths: A Study of Obowo Facebook Users