President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerian youths to harness digital media for promoting unity, innovation, and fast-tracking national development.

Mr ‎Tinubu made the call ‎at the Progressives Digital Summit held Friday at the State House, Abuja.

The two-day summit is with the theme: “Unveiling the Critical Role of New Media in National Development.”

Mr ‎Tinubu emphasised that digital platforms can empower young people, stimulate economic growth, and shape the nation’s future.

‎”I challenge you to use your platforms, not only for self-expression, anger or retaliation, but for problem-solving, to mentor others as we grow.”

‎“We are in a world where disinformation spreads easily. Verify before you amplify.”

‎“Let the digital space reflect the values that bind us together as a people, honesty, compassion, discipline, and patriotism.”

‎He noted the government is investing in digital infrastructure to expand internet access nationwide.

‎“We will not lose focus on cybersecurity. Every Nigerian has a right to be protected in both the physical and digital domains.”

‎”As our digital ecosystem grows, so must our collective responsibility to ensure safety, trust and accountability.”

Mr ‎Tinubu praised young Nigerians for using digital tools to amplify their voices and build innovative solutions.

‎Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, in his remarks, decried the use of digital media for disinformation, especially ahead of the 2027 elections.‎

‎”Our recent experiences and those from elections in the USA, Germany, and other countries have taught us a crucial lesson.”‎

‎”Digital media are no longer just spaces for jokes, memes, or dance videos. They are battlegrounds where elections are won or lost.”

‎Dada Olusegun, summit convener and special assistant to the president on social media, urged Nigerians to see social media as a tool for national transformation.

‎‎“In just a decade, social media has transformed from a tool of personal connection into a powerful engine of communication, information, innovation, and influence.”

‎‎“It is no longer a peripheral player in national discourse… It has become central to how governments engage citizens, how businesses expand… and how ideas are exchanged.”

‎The event was attended by top government officials, youth associations, tech experts, media strategists, NGOs, and civil society groups.

(NAN)