THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN INFLUENCING MIGRATION ASPIRATIONS AMONG YOUTHS IN BAUCHI METROPOLIS: A STUDY OF TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM TRENDS FROM MAY 2023 – SEPTEMBER 2025.

ABSTRACT This study investigates the influence of social media on migration aspirations among youths in Bauchi Metropolis, with a specific focus on Twitter and Instagram trends between May 2023 to September 2025. The research aimed to assess how online content influences young people’s intentions to migrate. The target population comprised 217,200 youths aged 18–35 years who are active users of the two platforms. A survey research design was adopted, and 384 questionnaires were distributed using simple random sampling. Out of these, 230 were returned, representing a 59.9% response rate. The study was anchored on the Media Dependency theory , which posits that individuals depend on media to meet their needs for information, guidance and support, particularly when making importance decisions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages. The findings revealed that social media significantly shapes migration aspirations by exposing youths to migration opportunities, information, and lifestyle portrayals abroad. While Twitter primarily influenced aspirations through discussions, news, and networking, Instagram’s influence was mainly through visual content and aspirational imagery. The study concludes that social media plays a substantial role in motivating migration aspirations among youths in Bauchi Metropolis. It recommends that policymakers and development stakeholders leverage these platforms to provide accurate migration information while promoting local opportunities that encourage youth empowerment and reduce irregular migration. Keywords: Social Media, Migration Aspirations, Youths, Twitter, Instagram, Bauchi Metropolis, Uses and Gratifications Theory.