With over 38 million active social media users and a youth-driven population, the digital space is no longer a side conversation – it is the main stage of civic engagement. And we must be ready to lead, listen, and learn. At the National Assembly Library Trust Fund (NALTF), we are proud to have hosted the groundbreaking maiden edition of The Speaker’s New Media Exchange — a first-of-its-kind gathering designed to strengthen the bridge between Nigeria’s policymakers and its vibrant digital citizenry. Held on Monday, April 28, 2025, at our headquarters in Abuja, this landmark event marked a critical step forward in fostering dialogue at the intersection of communication, technology, and governance.
The Exchange was designed as a unique platform to engage young citizens — particularly digital media stakeholders, thought leaders, and practitioners — in direct conversation with lawmakers and government institutions. In a world where new media is reshaping narratives and influencing governance structures, this initiative reaffirms the critical role of responsible communication in national development.
The Executive Secretary of the NALTF, Rt. Hon. Henry Nwawuba, had the honor of delivering the keynote address. Speaking to an audience of lawmakers, digital media influencers, and opinion molders from across Nigeria, Nwawuba welcomed guests to the NALTF facility, describing it as a “center for debate and dialogue,” and a critical hub for driving legislative excellence on the African continent.
“Our vision at the National Assembly Library Trust Fund is to be a catalyst for legislative excellence in Africa,” he emphasized. “This facility stands ready to serve as a resource center for lawmakers, researchers, and the general public seeking to deepen democratic governance and policy innovation.”
In his address, Nwawuba highlighted the immense potential of Nigeria’s entertainment and fashion industries as pillars for national development. He called on policymakers and stakeholders to adopt greater intentionality in their development strategies, urging them to harness these vibrant sectors as engines for economic growth and cultural diplomacy.
Moreover, he encouraged the new generation of digital media practitioners to leverage the research and information resources available at NALTF. In an age where misinformation can spread rapidly, Nwawuba stressed that access to credible information is vital for responsible civic engagement and for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy in the digital era.
The event was hosted by the Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, who underscored the indispensable role of new media in governance, legislation, and public engagement. Speaker Abbas reiterated his commitment to fostering openness, transparency, and collaboration between the legislature and the citizens it serves through strategic engagements like the New Media Exchange.
“Our democracy must not fear the voices online – it must embrace them. Dialogue, not censorship. Education, not suppression. Engagement, not exclusion”. – Speaker Abbas Tajudeen
Also in attendance were several Honourable Members of the House of Representatives, senior officials, and over 100 digital media influencers and opinion leaders representing a broad spectrum of sectors from across the nation.
The Speaker’s New Media Exchange aims to bridge the longstanding communication gap between government institutions and Nigeria’s dynamic digital public. Through open dialogue, interactive learning, and collaborative ideation, it promotes transparency, legislative accountability, and meaningful citizen participation in governance.
This year’s event was themed: ‘Smart Cities and Ethical Media: Navigating the Role of Policy in National Development.’ It drew together national and international players across diverse fields — media, technology, public relations, policy development, and civic engagement — all key actors within the evolving digital media space.
Key sessions at the Exchange addressed critical topics shaping contemporary governance. Discussions included ‘Legislating for Digital Responsibility: Curbing Fake News and Promoting Patriotism in the Social Media Era,’ and ‘Smart Cities, Thriving Athletes: How Policy Shapes Infrastructure and Sports Development.’ These sessions provided participants with deep insights into the legislative frameworks necessary for ensuring a robust, ethical, and innovation-driven society.
A major highlight of the event was the interactive breakout sessions, where citizens engaged directly with Honourable Members of the House. These sessions culminated in a practical exercise where participants collaboratively presented mock bills — an initiative designed to demystify the legislative process and empower citizens with a hands-on understanding of governance.
At NALTF, we believe that knowledge sharing, open dialogue, and mutual understanding are pillars of a thriving democracy. The Speaker’s New Media Exchange 2025 offered a blueprint for navigating the opportunities and challenges of the digital age, reaffirming that responsible communication and innovative policymaking are inseparable components of national growth.
As we look forward to future editions, we remain committed to serving as a catalyst for legislative excellence, promoting civic engagement, and inspiring a new generation of leaders and citizens ready to shape Nigeria’s future through informed dialogue and responsible action.
