IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON STUDENTS' ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL IN MAIDUGURI METROPOLIS, BORNO STATE

This study explores the impact of social media on students' academic performance of secondary school in Maiduguri Metropolis, Borno State. With the rapid growth of digital technologies, particularly social media platforms, among Nigerian students, this research aims to understand how social media usage influences their academic outcomes. The study employed a survey design, gathering data from a sample of 150 students from various educational institutions within the Maiduguri Metropolis. Questionnaires were used to collect information on students' social media usage patterns, the platforms most frequented, and their study habits. The academic performance of the students was assessed through their recent grades and self-reported academic achievements. Findings indicate that From the data, TikTok emerged as the most frequently accessed platform, with 40% of respondents choosing it, followed by WhatsApp at 23.3%. Facebook, traditionally popular in many parts of the world, was accessed by only 10% of respondents. The data on social media usage frequency paints a clear picture of how embedded social media is in the daily lives of students. A large majority (80%) of students reported using social media every day. The study also identified that while social media is a source of educational content and academic networking, its overuse contributes to distractions, procrastination, and a reduction in study time. Conversely, students who utilized social media for academic purposes (e.g., participating in educational groups or accessing learning materials) showed a positive impact on their performance. The study recommends that educators and parents develop strategies to help students manage their social media usage, encouraging its constructive use while minimizing its potential negative effects. Additionally, integrating digital literacy and time management skills into the curriculum could empower students to balance their online and academic responsibilities effectively.