President Bola Tinubu praised new media on Friday as a critical pillar of Nigeria’s national development, urging young digital influencers to capitalise on its potential for economic growth, civic participation, and social improvement.
Tinubu, speaking at the Progressive Digital Media Summit at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, praised the ingenuity and ambition of young Nigerians changing the digital environment, referring to them as “not just the future, but the builders of it.”
He said, “Across Nigeria, we are witnessing a surge of creativity and ambition as young people use digital media to share their voices and shape society. From developing new platforms to building vibrant online communities, you are redefining what is possible for this country.”
Tinubu stressed that new media is no longer peripheral but a central force in shaping public discourse, enabling political participation, and creating employment across sectors.
He, however, issued a warning that with greater influence comes greater responsibility.
“Verify before you amplify,” he cautioned. “Let the digital space reflect the values that bind us together: honesty, compassion, discipline, and patriotism. Patriotism is not about slogans or political theatre, but about what we contribute to the common good.”
Tinubu underlined his administration’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, stating that all Nigerians will soon have access to the internet as a right rather than a privilege.
He cited existing investments in broadband expansion, the National Digital Innovation Fund, and startup-friendly regulations that promote local talent and entrepreneurship.
He also stated that cybersecurity would remain a national priority, emphasising that every Nigerian deserves protection both offline and online.
“You, the young people, are Nigeria’s greatest investment,” the president said. “Your ideas, your energy, and your commitment to national development are among our most valuable assets.”
Tinubu encouraged digital innovators to use their platforms not only to express themselves, but also to solve problems, mentor others, and promote digital literacy and national unity.
“Every app you design, every story you tell, every brand you build is a statement about who we are as a people,” he said. “Let your digital footprint reflect the best of Nigeria.”
Tinubu drew parallels with the national women’s football team, which had mounted a spectacular comeback from a two-goal deficit, and encouraged digital entrepreneurs to pursue their goals with resilience and persistence.
“Let your creativity continue to inspire. Let your enterprise create opportunity. And let your example show that this generation is not only ready for the future but ready to lead it.”
The launch of PBATVersary/2.0, a digital compendium recording the Tinubu administration’s accomplishments over the last two years, was a major highlight of the summit.
The conference attracted a varied group of influencers, content creators, journalists, and policymakers who attended sessions on digital ethics, strategic storytelling, innovation, and the role of technology in governance.
