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Historian and academic, Professor Toyin Falola, has highlighted the need for people to preserve genuine human connections amid the growing influence of social media and changing lifestyles.
Falola raised the concern while speaking at an event marking the 50th anniversary of the Ibadan Social Group, where he examined the place of social clubs in strengthening relationships and promoting a sense of belonging.
He observed that digital communication has changed how people interact, but warned that frequent online engagement does not always translate into meaningful personal relationships. According to him, the true value of friendship lies in trust, commitment and the willingness to stand by others when they face challenges.
The professor also emphasised the contribution of social organisations to community development, noting that they provide opportunities for people to support one another, exchange ideas and maintain bonds that go beyond social media interactions.
Falola further explained that migration, globalisation and the pursuit of personal ambitions have contributed to the weakening of traditional community ties. He urged people to pay greater attention to building relationships that can withstand difficult circumstances.
He maintained that social clubs and similar associations still have an important role to play in modern society, particularly in fostering solidarity and shared responsibility. He called for a balance between the use of digital platforms and direct human interaction to prevent technology from diminishing the quality of personal relationships.
