New Media: Tinubu tasks influencers on fostering national unity, creating opportunities

*President Bola Ahmed Tinubu urges new media practitioners and influencers to use their digital platforms to advance national progress, build businesses that employ others, and create Web content that ‘uplifts and unites, not divisive’ among Nigerians

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Friday, August 1, 2025, challenged young Nigerians active in the digital media space to harness their platforms as instruments of national progress, not division.

ConsumerConnect reports President Tinubu said this at the opening of the Progressives Digital Media Summit, with the theme: “Unveiling the Critical Role of New Media in National Development”, held in Abuja, FCT.

Photo: The Nigerian Inquirer 

He urged the new media influencers to build businesses that create employment, produce Web content that reflects unifying values, and serve as positive catalysts for societal development in the country’s digital ecosystem.

The Nigerian leader also stressed the critical importance of verifying information before amplifying it.

Mr. Bayo Onanuga, CON, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Friday also stated President Tinubu said: “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.”

He also stated: “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.”

Nigerian youths, digital media and socioeconomic transformation

Underscoring the importance of the space in modern life, President Tinubu commended the creativity and resilience of Nigeria’s youth.

He also described digital media environment as a driving force for economic and social transformation.

The President further stated: “It is no longer merely an accessory to life.

“From developing innovative platforms to building vibrant online communities, you are demonstrating the determination that is redefining what is possible for this country.”

He as well said: “You are not waiting for the future; you are building it.

“Digital media is now a central driver of economic growth, civic engagement, and social change.

“It broadens representation for those previously unheard.”

ConsumerConnect reports there are inherent challenges of the New Media landscape in Nigeria, according to a recent study, which established though the ecosystem “significantly impacted the media landscape, leading to the rise of digital platforms and a shift away from traditional media dominance.

“This includes the proliferation of online news outlets, social media influencers, and the adoption of digital technologies by traditional media houses.”

The study found although the new-fangled avenues offer information access and citizen engagement in the West African country, they equally “present challenges, such as the spread of misinformation, threats to press freedom, and the need for digital literacy.”

On creation of National Digital Innovation Fund and policies

President Tinubu said his administration is committed to supporting digital innovation with the National Digital Innovation Fund and policies that promote a thriving startup ecosystem in the country.

Tinubu, however, cautioned new media practitioners to remain vigilant against the increasing cases of disinformation and cyberthreats.

Speaking at the forum, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff (CoS) to the President, applauded digital media practitioners, who have consistently stood up for Nigeria and projected the country positively on the global stage.

Gbajabiamila asserted: “You are the vanguard of a reborn Nigeria, determined to reach for the stars. “Under President Tinubu’s leadership, our nation has begun its long-delayed march toward greatness. The road may be challenging, but it is necessary.”

Onanuga: Influencers should guard against falsehoods, divisive digital content

Also in a goodwill message, Mr. Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, highlighted the significance of the Summit.

The Presidential aide noted that lessons from recent elections in countries, such as the United States (US) and Germany, have underscored how digital media have become crucial battlegrounds beyond mere entertainment for shaping poll outcomes.

He stated: “However, 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.”

Onanuga said: “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 Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, however, expressed optimism that the Summit would address these challenges, focusing on strategies to combat fake news and misinformation.

In his address, Segun Dada, Special Assistant to the President on New Media, who was the summit convener, emphasised that in less than a decade, digital media has evolved from a tool of personal connection into a powerful engine for communication, innovation and influence.

Dada emphasised the significance of deploying this force for the good of Nigeria, while managing inherent risks, including privacy concerns and threats to social cohesion in Nigeria.

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