President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged young Nigerians involved in digital media to leverage their platforms as tools for national progress during his address on Friday.
He encouraged them to establish businesses that create job opportunities, produce content promoting unifying values, and act as positive catalysts for societal development. He emphasised the importance of verifying information before sharing it.
At the opening of the Progressives Digital Media Summit, themed “Unveiling the Critical Role of New Media in National Development,” President Tinubu stated:
“Your generation has recognised this moment. You are utilising digital tools to innovate, educate, and demand accountability. However, as your influence increases, so must our collective sense of purpose and responsibility.
“I urge you to continue using digital platforms to advance our nation. Build businesses that create jobs. Produce content that uplifts and unites. Use your influence to promote unity, not division.”
He praised the creativity and resilience of Nigeria’s youth, noting that digital media serves as a driving force for economic and social transformation.
“It is no longer merely an accessory to life,” he added. “From developing innovative platforms to establishing vibrant online communities, you are demonstrating the determination that is redefining what is possible for this country.
“You are not waiting for the future; you are building it. Digital media is now a central driver of economic growth, civic engagement, and social change, broadening representation for those previously unheard.”
The President affirmed that his administration is committed to supporting digital innovation through the National Digital Innovation Fund and policies that foster a thriving startup ecosystem. However, he cautioned practitioners to remain vigilant against disinformation and cyber threats.
Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, acknowledged digital media practitioners for consistently advocating for Nigeria and positively representing the nation 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-overdue journey toward greatness. The road may be challenging, but it is necessary,” he stated.
In a goodwill message, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, highlighted the significance of the Summit. He noted that lessons from recent elections in countries like the U.S. and Germany illustrate how digital media have become crucial battlegrounds—not just for entertainment—but for shaping electoral outcomes.
“However, social media is not a fair battleground. As a public square, it is often chaotic and unregulated. Users frequently ignore the rules. Divisive content is rampant, and deepfakes and AI-generated material are increasingly used against political opponents. Posts are driven by clicks, not truth or accuracy. Misinformation spreads five times faster than official corrections,” Onanuga observed.
He expressed optimism that the Summit would address these challenges, focusing on strategies to combat fake news and misinformation.
Segun Dada, the summit convener and Special Assistant to the President on New Media, emphasised that in less than a decade, digital media has evolved from a tool for personal communication into a powerful engine for communication, innovation, and influence.
He stressed the importance of harnessing this force for the benefit of Nigeria while managing inherent risks, such as privacy concerns and threats to social cohesion.