President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerian youths active in the digital media space to deploy their platforms for the nation’s growth rather than for division and misinformation.
He made the appeal on Friday at the opening of the Progressives Digital Media Summit, themed “Unveiling the Critical Role of New Media in National Development,” where he charged digital influencers to become instruments of national unity and progress.
According to Tinubu, the evolution of new media has placed a powerful tool in the hands of young Nigerians. He urged them to focus their creativity on building businesses that generate employment, producing content that unites the people, and becoming agents of positive social transformation.
“Your generation has recognised this moment. You are using digital tools to innovate, educate, and demand accountability. But as your influence grows, so must our collective sense of purpose and responsibility,” Tinubu said.
“I urge you to continue using digital platforms to advance our nation’s progress. Build businesses that employ others. Create content that uplifts and unites. Use your influence to foster unity, not division,” he added.
The President acknowledged the creativity and resilience of Nigerian youths, describing digital media as a new pillar of economic and civic life. He stated that his administration is committed to supporting innovation through the National Digital Innovation Fund and policies that promote a vibrant startup ecosystem.
“Digital media is now a central driver of economic growth, civic engagement, and social change. It broadens representation for those previously unheard,” Tinubu said.
However, the President also cautioned against the growing threat of disinformation and cyber abuse, emphasizing the need for digital practitioners to verify information before sharing.
Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, also lent his voice in support of responsible media practice. He praised those who have used their influence to project Nigeria positively on the global stage.
“You are the vanguard of a reborn Nigeria, determined to reach for the stars. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, our nation has begun its long-delayed march toward greatness. The road may be challenging, but it is necessary,” Gbajabiamila said.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, warned of the growing risks within digital media, especially in electoral contexts.
“Social media is not a fair battleground. As a public square, it is often chaotic and unregulated. Users frequently disregard rules. Divisive content is rampant. Deepfakes and AI-generated content are increasingly used against political opponents. Posts are driven by clicks, not truth or accuracy. Misinformation spreads five times faster than official corrections,” Onanuga said.
He expressed hope that the summit would serve as a platform to develop strategies for combating fake news and promoting digital responsibility.
The convener of the summit and Special Assistant to the President on New Media, Segun Dada, noted the rapid evolution of digital platforms into tools of power and influence. He called for more efforts to channel this influence in ways that benefit the country.
“Digital media has grown from a tool for personal connection into a powerful engine for communication, innovation, and influence. We must use it to unite Nigeria and guard against threats to our social fabric,” Dada said.
