Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerian youths to harness digital media for promoting unity, innovation, and fast-tracking national development. Tinubu made the call at the Progressives Digital Summit held Friday at the State House, Abuja. The two-day summit is themed: ‘Unveiling the Critical Role of New Media in National Development.’
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Tinubu emphasized that digital platforms can empower young people, stimulate economic growth, and shape the nation’s future. “I challenge you to use your platforms, not only for self-expression, anger or retaliation, but for problem-solving, to mentor others as we grow,” he stated. He further encouraged the youth to be cautious of spreading disinformation and to verify information before sharing it. “Let the digital space reflect the values that bind us together as a people, honesty, compassion, discipline, and patriotism,” he added.
The President noted that the government is investing in digital infrastructure to expand internet access nationwide. He assured that cybersecurity will not be neglected, emphasizing that every Nigerian has the right to protection in both physical and digital domains. “As our digital ecosystem grows, so must our collective responsibility to ensure safety, trust and accountability,” Tinubu remarked.
Tinubu praised young Nigerians for using digital tools to amplify their voices and build innovative solutions. Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, highlighted the misuse of digital media for disinformation, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2027 elections. “Our recent experiences and those from elections in the USA, Germany, and other countries have taught us a crucial lesson,” Onanuga said. “Digital media are no longer just spaces for jokes, memes, or dance videos. They are battlegrounds where elections are won or lost.”
Mr. Dada Olusegun, summit convener and Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, urged Nigerians to view social media as a tool for national transformation. “In just a decade, social media has transformed from a tool of personal connection into a powerful engine of communication, information, innovation, and influence,” Olusegun stated. “It is no longer a peripheral player in national discourse. It has become central to how governments engage citizens, how businesses expand. and how ideas are exchanged.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event was attended by top government officials, youth associations, tech experts, media strategists, NGOs, and civil society groups.