By Erewunmi Peace

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on digital content creators, influencers, and new media practitioners to wield their online influence responsibly — promoting unity, truth, and national development rather than division and misinformation.

Speaking during the Digital Media Summit held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the President emphasized that the age of social media is a powerful one — but must be guided by integrity, critical thinking, and civic responsibility.

“Use your influence to foster unity, not division. Verify before you amplify,” Tinubu urged.

A Call for Responsible Influence

The President highlighted that while content creation, commentary, and engagement have democratized communication in Nigeria, they’ve also opened doors to unchecked falsehoods, manipulation, and polarization.

He charged digital voices to:

Verify information before sharing

Use platforms to inspire progress, create jobs, and solve problems

Be champions of nation-building, especially in critical moments

Government Support for Digital Innovation

President Tinubu also reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s growing digital ecosystem. He outlined investments in:

Broadband infrastructure

Cybersecurity enhancements

The National Digital Innovation Fund

Digital education and creative empowerment for youth

These, he noted, are crucial to equipping Nigerian creators and tech entrepreneurs for global competitiveness.

A National Vision for Media Unity

The event brought together digital influencers, government representatives, and tech leaders, as part of a broader effort to align Nigeria’s digital media growth with national unity, socioeconomic transformation, and responsible communication.

In closing, President Tinubu reiterated the vital role influencers play in shaping perceptions:

“You are not just content creators — you are culture shapers, idea builders, and frontline messengers of hope or chaos. Choose wisely.”