By Sade Adewale

I t is almost unthinkable to go a day without using technology. Research has revealed that technology has become entrenched in virtually every aspect of modern life including working in the office checking emails, watching videos and managing daily tasks . But as we revel in the convenience it offers, have we paused to ask ourselves, how much control do we still have?

Without doubt, technology has transformed the lives of millions. It touches nearly every facet of modern existence, making things easier and influencing decision-making. While its services bring convenience, there is a growing need for vigilance to ensure that this power does not encroach on our privacy or erode our freedom of choice. One can fully utilise technology’s tools and still retain control if there is awareness and intentionality. Technology may have made people smarter, but it has also, worryingly, contributed to mental laziness.

Its influence on the average person is complex both beneficial and detrimental. Its dominance in information access, communication and daily use comes with unintended consequences, particularly around privacy and mental well-being.

Speaking with Weekend Hope, Mr Adebayo Makanjuola said one of life’s ironies is that good things often come with bad sides, depending on the individual, their motives and the prevailing circumstances.

According to him, we are constantly bombarded with the wonders of technology, yet like everything else in life, it has its downsides. One critical danger, he warned, is technology addiction, an emerging menace that not only disrupts life but can also pose real threats.

Makanjuola described technology addiction as the excessive and uncontrolled use of tech-related products such as the internet, video games, electronic devices and machines.

He added that technology addiction can trigger health issues including depression, mood swings, impulsivity, high blood pressure, and eye-related problems. He cited studies, including one that revealed that about 8.5 per cent of gamers in the US exhibit signs of gaming disorder.

According to the analyst, “A key point we must keep at the back of our minds is how easy it is to slip into tech addiction without even realising it, especially given the sheer volume of tech devices at our disposal today.”

He noted how common it is to see people walking on the streets while glued to their phones.

He recounted a chilling scenario where some youths, with earphones plugged in, walked straight to their deaths, oblivious to their surroundings and the blaring horns of an oncoming train. “That is the horror of tech addiction,” he lamented.

Makanjuola added that similar incidents, including people falling off bridges under such circumstances, are more than enough reasons to intensify awareness campaigns, especially among the youth.

Also, Mrs Eunice Adeotan  noted that technology enhances productivity by equipping people with essential tools and creating a more unified global work culture.

Also lending his voice, Mr Jeffrey Steve described technology as a productivity powerhouse, enabling real-time collaboration and efficient scheduling.

However, he was quick to add that excessive screen time and compulsive social media use can wreak havoc on mental health, fueling anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues.

Steve warned that an over-dependence on technology may cripple independent thinking and problem-solving skills.

On her part, Miss Ebunoluwa Ajonijebu highlighted how technology grants seamless access to vast knowledge, thereby enhancing learning, research, and communication. However, she cautioned that poor usage could make technology a double-edged sword.

“Technology is dangerous if not well used,” she said, noting that the overwhelming volume of information online can lead to content fatigue and shallow engagement.

Also speaking, Kehinde Adewumi observed that technology has both positive and negative impacts stressing that it all depends on how it is used.

He added that technology opens doors to online learning, skills acquisition, and educational advancement for both students and apprentices.

But he also warned that it can create echo chambers, reinforcing biases and limiting exposure to diverse opinions.