August 01, (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu has urged young Nigerians active in the digital media space to use their platforms as tools for national unity, economic growth, and responsible civic engagement.
Speaking at the opening of the Progressives Digital Media Summit on Friday in Abuja, the President encouraged content creators and digital entrepreneurs to build businesses that create jobs, share content that promotes unity, and serve as catalysts for positive societal change.
The event, themed “Unveiling the Critical Role of New Media in National Development,” brought together key stakeholders in the digital communication space.
Tinubu stressed the importance of verifying information before sharing it, warning that misinformation threatens the fabric of society.
“Your generation has embraced this moment. You’re using digital tools to innovate, educate, and demand accountability. But as your influence grows, so must our collective sense of purpose and responsibility,” he said.
“Build businesses that employ others. Create content that uplifts and unites. Use your influence to foster unity—not division.”
The President praised the creativity and resilience of Nigerian youth, describing digital media as a powerful force for economic and social transformation.
“From developing platforms to building vibrant online communities, you are redefining what is possible. Digital media now drives economic growth, civic engagement, and social change. It amplifies the voices of those previously unheard,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s support for digital innovation, Tinubu cited initiatives like the National Digital Innovation Fund and policies supporting a thriving startup ecosystem.
He, however, cautioned against the growing risks of cyber threats and disinformation.
Also speaking at the event, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, commended digital media practitioners who have projected Nigeria positively on the global stage.
“You are the vanguard of a reborn Nigeria. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we have begun a long-overdue march toward greatness. The road is tough, but necessary,” he said.
In his remarks, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, noted that digital media has become a critical battleground in shaping elections, citing examples from the U.S. and Germany.
“But social media is not a fair or regulated space. It is chaotic and often driven by sensationalism. Deepfakes, AI-generated content, and click-driven misinformation now dominate the space,” he warned.
Onanuga expressed hope that the summit would tackle the challenge of fake news and highlight ways to restore credibility in the digital information space.
The summit convener and Special Assistant to the President on New Media, Segun Dada, underscored the growing power of digital media, noting that in less than a decade, it has evolved from a tool for personal connection to a major driver of communication, innovation, and public influence.
He called for a collective effort to harness its potential while addressing risks such as disinformation, data privacy breaches, and threats to national unity.
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