President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to be ambassadors of truth, highlighting the nation’s progress rather than spreading misinformation.
Speaking at the official launch of the “My Nigeria, My Responsibility” campaign, themed ‘Reigniting Patriotism through Responsible Citizenship and Leadership’, on Monday, the President called on citizens to embody the Citizens’ Charter of National Values through integrity, patriotism, diligence, tolerance, and excellence.
Represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, President Tinubu said citizens’ patriotism is reflected in their contributions to the state, particularly through tax payments, describing it as “the most concrete transaction of trust between a citizen and the state.”
He added: “Your responsibility is to own our story: be an ambassador of truth.
”In the digital age, do not weaponize misinformation.
”Highlight the progress, the innovation, the peace. Live our values in your workplace, community, and online interactions.”
The President also hinted at the forthcoming launch of the National Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Institute in February 2026, aimed at equipping Nigerians with tools to discern truth, resist manipulation, and engage ethically online.
“This will be your national toolkit to build a public sphere worthy of our democratic journey,” he noted.
“True patriotism is an active verb,” he emphasised, adding that the destiny of Nigeria rests in the daily actions, words, and choices of over 200 million citizens, not only in the hands of a few in Abuja.
Professor Umaru A. Pate, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Kashere, described the campaign as a civic faith and a call for self-accountability, stressing that patriotism must be rooted in thoughtful action.
“Leadership is also reminded to earn the trust of citizens by demonstrating accountability, prioritizing national interest over personal interest, ensuring fairness in resource allocation, and providing opportunities for the youth,” he said.
Senator Barau Jibrin, Deputy Senate President, urged Nigerians to support government initiatives, pay taxes, and embrace law-abiding citizenship.
The campaign was initiated by Hon. Nasir Bala Ja’oji, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Ja’oji said nation-building is a collective responsibility and not the task of government alone.
“The ‘My Nigeria, My Responsibility’ initiative is designed to strengthen civic consciousness, inspire behavioural change, and empower Nigerians to take active roles in shaping the future they desire,” he stated.
Ja’oji explained that the programme would engage communities, students, professionals, traditional institutions, influencers, and private sector actors across all six geopolitical zones.
Activities would include advocacy, leadership training, digital engagement, and public sensitisation to instill a culture of responsible citizenship and leadership.
He commended President Tinubu’s administration for empowering youth, strengthening institutions, and rekindling national pride.
“Let us inspire our citizens to say ‘YES’ to active patriotism and responsible leadership,” he said.
