Uses and Gratifications of Social Networking Websites among Youths in Uyo, Nigeria

This study examined the Uses and Gratifications of Social Networking Websites among Youths in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria. The population of the study was 86,662 with a sample of 381 respondents derived from the multi-stage sampling procedure. The study used the survey method as the research technique while the measuring instrument was the questionnaire which contained 13 items – eight close-ended and five open-ended questions. The data for the study were analysed through the use of tables and were expressed in simple percentages. The study found out that youths in Uyo registered in at least 46 social networking websites which indicates that they are internet-savvy and is part of the global social networking. It also found that the youths were active users of social networking websites and accessed the websites for various purposes and gratifications. It also established that the youths were not always fulfilled in their expectations of social networking sites, although they made use of these websites daily. The study recommended that service providers should, as their contribution to national development, reduce the cost of access to enable more youths in Uyo metropolis to register with and use social networking websites.