Inclusivity Key to Nigeria’s Democracy, Says Speaker

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Abbas Tajudeen, says the country’s democracy should be judged on how inclusive it is.

Dr Abbas made the comments in Abuja at “the Speaker’s New Media Exchange 2025” with a group of social media influencers, most of whom are youths.

He emphasized the importance of involving young people in the democratic process stating 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.

He noted that Nigeria’s youthful population and their online presence are crucial to democracy.

The Speaker highlighted efforts to promote inclusivity, including legislation to support start-ups and protect digital rights noting that Nigeria’s digital landscape has grown rapidly, with 38.7 million active social media users, representing 16.3% of the national population.

The Speaker called for a balance between free speech and patriotism, stressing the need for dialogue and education to address issues like misinformation and digital security threats.

He emphasized that the approach would remain rooted in constructive engagement rather than censorship or coercion.

He stressed the importance of youth participation in governance, citing initiatives such as the Legislative Mentorship Initiative, Bi-Annual Youth Town Hall Meetings, and the establishment of the House Committee on Youths.

The Speaker reaffirmed the House’s commitment to building a more participatory democracy, transparency, and responsiveness to the needs of all Nigerians.

He also highlighted the significance of the Freedom of Information Act and enhanced budgetary support for youth development programs.

The event aimed to formalize a dialogue between the Nigerian Parliament and the digital community, recognizing their role in shaping national discourse.

Joining the Speaker were several members of the House as well as the Executive Secretary, National Assembly Library Trust Fund, Henry Nwawuba.

At the event were Kayode Okikiolu of Channels Television; a former Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Dr Joe Abah, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital Communications, O’tega Ogra; Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Olusegun Dada; and Comedian, Lawrence Oluwaseyitan Aletile (Seyi Law); Abraham Great, among several others.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Blessing Nyor