President Bola Tinubu has urged young Nigerians active in the digital media space to use their influence to promote national unity and development, not division or misinformation.
Speaking on Friday at the opening of the Progressives Digital Media Summit in Abuja, themed “Unveiling the Critical Role of New Media in National Development,” the president challenged digital content creators and influencers to build businesses that create jobs, share content that uplifts and drive societal progress through responsible online engagement.
“Your generation has recognised this moment,” Tinubu said.
“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.”
The president emphasised the importance of verifying information before amplifying it online, warning of the dangers of misinformation in an increasingly digital world.
“Digital media is no longer an accessory to life, it is now a central driver of economic growth, civic engagement, and social change,” he said.
“You are not waiting for the future; you are building it.”
He assured participants that his administration would continue to support innovation through the National Digital Innovation Fund and policies that strengthen Nigeria’s startup ecosystem.
However, he cautioned that cyber threats and disinformation remain growing challenges that must be collectively addressed.
Also speaking at the summit, chief of staff to the president, Femi Gbajabiamila, praised the resilience of Nigeria’s youth, calling them “the vanguard of a reborn Nigeria.”
He noted that under Tinubu’s leadership, the country had begun its long-awaited “march toward greatness,” despite the road being tough.
The special adviser to the president on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, delivered a candid message on the dangers of unchecked social media.
He referenced lessons from recent elections in the U.S. and Germany, highlighting how AI-generated content, deepfakes and click-driven posts are increasingly used to manipulate public perception.
“Social media is not a fair battleground. It is often chaotic and unregulated,” Onanuga said.
“Divisive content is rampant. Misinformation spreads five times faster than truth.”
He expressed hope that the summit would generate ideas for tackling fake news, promoting media literacy and building trust in Nigeria’s digital landscape.
Summit convener and special assistant to the president on new media, Segun Dada, noted that digital media has evolved over the past decade into a critical force for innovation and national influence.
He said this influence must be wielded responsibly, especially as Nigeria contends with issues like online harassment, disinformation and threats to national unity.
The Progressives Digital Media Summit attracted government officials, tech entrepreneurs, media strategists and young digital influencers from across the country, sparking conversations on how Nigeria’s online ecosystem can be both a tool for growth and a space for national healing.
