Nigerian president Bola Ahmed Tinubu has admonished young people to use social media responsibly and for purposes that drive national development.
Speaking on August 1, 2025, at the Digital Media Summit organised by the presidency under the theme: Unveiling the central role of new media in national development, President Tinubu stressed that new media had become an integral part of national life.
The President highlighted the good sides of new media, from driving economic growth to broadening political participation, creating jobs, and content that foster national unity.
“I urge you to continue using digital platforms as instruments of national progress but you should build businesses that employ others, create content that uplifts those around you, use your equipment to foster unity and not division,” he said.
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On the potent dangers that digital platforms present, President Tinubu cautioned about misinformation (the spread of false information unknowingly), cautioning citizens to verify information before sharing.
“We are in a world where misinformation spreads easily. Verify before you amplify, please. Let the digital space define the values that bind us together as a people, honesty, compassion, discipline and patriotism,” he appealed.
The President said his administration is committed to supporting digital innovation through the National Digital Innovation Fund and policies that promote a thriving startup ecosystem, a statement from the presidency read.
In a goodwill message, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, highlighted the role of digital media as crucial political battlegrounds, and that, beyond mere entertainment, they have been used to shape poll outcomes elsewhere.
“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.” Onanuga said.
Nigeria has a vibrant social media space which has exposed Africa’s most populous nation to the threats of mis and disinformation. Multiple studies have highlighted this challenge, advocating how and why the government must take steps to combat the same.
