… Warns disinformation, cyber threats are national threats
… Social media no longer a neutral space – Onanuga
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged young Nigerians dominating the new media space to transform their platforms into vehicles of national advancement by promoting unity, combating misinformation, and creating opportunities that empower others.
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Speaking during the opening ceremony of the Progressives Digital Media Summit in Abuja on Friday, the President commended the ingenuity of Nigerian youths and challenged them to rise above mere online engagement by using digital tools to drive national development.
In a statement signed by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu was quoted as saying:
“Your generation has recognised this moment. 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.
“I urge you to continue using digital platforms to advance our nation’s progress. Build businesses that employ others. Create content that uplifts and unites. Use your influence to foster unity, not division.”
The President emphasised that the digital space should no longer serve as a battleground for ethnic or political polarisation, but rather a catalyst for innovation, enterprise, and civic responsibility.
President Tinubu further noted that digital media had become more than just a lifestyle accessory, describing it as a major engine powering economic growth and civic inclusion.
“You are not waiting for the future; you are building it,” the statement read partly.
“Digital media is now a central driver of economic growth, civic engagement, and social change. It broadens representation for those previously unheard.”
The President also reassured the digital community of his administration’s support through the National Digital Innovation Fund and favourable policies designed to boost a thriving startup ecosystem. He, however, issued a stern warning against the dangers of fake news and cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
“Remain vigilant against disinformation and cyber threats,” the statement warned.
Delivering a goodwill message, Mr. Onanuga described the summit as timely and crucial. He warned that digital platforms, particularly social media, have become breeding grounds for manipulated content, misinformation, and artificial intelligence abuse.
“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.
“Posts are driven by clicks, not truth or accuracy. Misinformation spreads five times faster than official corrections,” the statement added.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Segun Dada, Special Assistant to the President on New Media and convener of the summit, said digital media had evolved significantly in the last decade and should now be harnessed for responsible communication and national interest.
“What started as a tool for social connection is now a powerful engine of influence and innovation. But we must also guard against threats to privacy, security, and social cohesion,” he said.
The summit brought together hundreds of young digital media influencers, content creators, journalists, and policy experts to chart a responsible path forward for Nigeria’s online ecosystem.
