The Influence of Instagram in African/nigerian Literature

ABSTRACT This study investigates the role of social media technologies in the development of African/Nigerian literature. It examines the different ways that these new technologies such as the Internet and mobile phones have revolutionised the way Nigerians write and read literary works on the continent. The objective of literature in Nigeria is education and entertainment through songs, stories, myths, and drama. However, a challenge that limits production and access to literary content is social media, new writers in Nigeria have created a stir in the arenas of creative writing. Uses and gratification as well as diffusion of innovation theories were adopted as the theoretical framework for this study. A total of 6 African writers elicit responses on how social media has influenced Nigerian literature. Some of the writers interviewed have distinguished themselves in their fields, their works have appeared alongside works of other international writers. The readers were chosen from a popular literary society. The results of the study indicate that the Internet has a big impact on reception of African/ Nigerian literature, creating endless opportunities, easy accessibility, promotion of work and networking with peers and literary community. The findings also shows that social media also increases networking opportunities and provides a platform where readers access, share and discuss African literature. Mobile phones also play a significant and functional role in the reception and promotion of African literature. Overall, these findings suggest that social media technologies have created opportunities for African literature to be appreciated globally, and have enabled readers to access, share and discuss new works.