By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Correspondent
PRESIDENT BOLA Tinubu has urged young Nigerians in the digital media space to transform their platforms into instruments of national development, fostering unity, creating jobs, and curbing misinformation.
Addressing participants at the Progressives Digital Media Summit on Friday, the President encouraged digital entrepreneurs and content creators to elevate their roles in shaping a responsible, innovation-driven future for the country.
He highlighted the theme of the summit, “Unveiling the Critical Role of New Media in National Development,” as a timely call to action.
“Your generation has recognised this moment. You are using digital tools to innovate, educate, and demand accountability,” Tinubu stated.
“But as your influence grows, so must our collective sense of purpose and responsibility.”
He charged practitioners to build businesses that create employment, produce uplifting content, and use their platforms to drive social cohesion. “Use your influence to foster unity, not division,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to a robust tech ecosystem, the President cited the National Digital Innovation Fund and other supportive policies as avenues for empowering young innovators.
But he warned that the benefits of digital progress must not be derailed by the spread of falsehoods, disinformation, or digital security threats.
“Digital media is now a central driver of economic growth, civic engagement, and social change. It broadens representation for those previously unheard,” Tinubu said, applauding Nigeria’s youth for redefining what is possible through online creativity and resilience.
Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, also saluted digital media leaders who continue to project Nigeria positively on the global stage. “You are the vanguard of a reborn Nigeria, determined to reach for the stars,” he remarked, noting that the journey ahead would be difficult but necessary.
Also speaking at the summit, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, warned about the growing influence of unregulated social media practices, which have turned platforms into contested spaces for misinformation.
“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,” Onanuga stated.
He expressed hope that the summit would offer strategies to counter disinformation and strengthen digital ethics.
Special Assistant to the President on New Media and convener of the summit, Segun Dada, described digital media as a transformative force that has rapidly grown beyond social interaction into a major driver of influence and innovation.
He acknowledged its risks, including privacy concerns and societal fragmentation, but emphasised the responsibility of users to channel its power for national good.
