Effects of Social Media on the Academic Performance of Undergraduate Students of Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

Social media is an integral tool for interaction and interpersonal relationships, thus reducing physical interaction with the convenience of online platforms. This study explores the effects of social media on the academic performance of undergraduate students of Niger Delta University.

Using a cross-sectional research design, data were collected through primary and secondary sources. With a sample size of 370, the data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study revealed a widespread use of social media among students of the Niger Delta University. It also showed that social media does not significantly impact academic performance.

The findings further revealed that while social media offers opportunities for information sharing, networking, and collaboration, it also presents challenges such as distraction and negative impacts on studies. It was thus recommended, among others, that there should be collaborative efforts between educational institutions and stakeholders that are crucial in developing interventions and policies that foster positive social media experiences while addressing potential risks. There is also a need for research and dialogue on the evolving dynamics of social media in academic settings to gain deeper insights into students' social media usage, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the digital landscape effectively.