The Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen has said Nigeria’s democracy must be measured by how much the critical stakeholders in the nation are involved in the processes.
Addressing a group of social media influencers, most of whom were youth, at the National Assembly, the Speaker highlighted the importance of the teeming youth population and their voice on the Internet to democracy.
Joining the Speaker were several members of the House as well as the Executive Secretary, National Assembly Library Trust Fund, Henry Nwawuba.
He stated that the engagement, with the theme, ‘Smart Cities and Ethical Media: Navigating the Role of Policy in National Development,’ was for a critical reflection on the intersection of governance, innovation, and responsible communication.
Speaker Abbas said: “We are not unmindful of the challenges posed by misinformation, digital security threats, and the misuse of online platforms. Nonetheless, our approach shall remain rooted in dialogue, education, and constructive engagement rather than censorship or coercion.”
“In a nation whose demographic composition is overwhelmingly youthful, and where digital platforms have become central to information exchange, advocacy, and civic engagement, it is both strategic and necessary to forge this partnership.”
Abbas described the interaction as “an unprecedented engagement designed to formalise a dialogue between the Nigerian Parliament and the dynamic community of digital actors.”
He further said the House has demonstrated its commitment to innovation and youth empowerment through legislation such as the Nigeria Start-Up Act, which fosters an enabling environment for technology entrepreneurs; and the Nigeria Data Protection Act, which safeguards digital rights.
