As the global trends to limit the use of social media for some minors continues, the Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a public consultation to gather citizens’ views on protecting children online.
The initiative includes considering minimum age limits for social media use.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, announced the plan on Tuesday.
He said the internet offers learning and communication opportunities but also exposes children to risks.
In a post on his official X account, Tijani explained that the consultation will help shape policies for safer digital environments.
He listed risks such as cyberbullying, harmful content, online exploitation, misuse of personal data, and challenges linked to artificial intelligence tools.
Policy Options Under Review
The government is evaluating several measures. These include age restrictions for social media platforms, stronger age-verification systems, accountability for digital platforms, and tighter regulatory oversight.
Tijani said public input is essential to ensure policies reflect national priorities and protect children’s rights.
He shared a survey link, encouraging parents, educators, young people, and digital professionals to participate.
He wrote, “Public input is essential to ensure that any framework adopted reflects national priorities, respects children’s rights, and responds to the realities of Nigeria’s digital landscape.”
The consultation follows global developments. For example, Australia recently introduced strict rules, banning children under 16 from accessing social media platforms.
Nigeria has similar challenges as more children use digital platforms.
The government said feedback from the consultation will guide decisions on how best to protect children while ensuring they benefit from online opportunities.
The initiative reflects growing concern about not only online safety but the exposure of inappropriate contents on the minds of impressionable young minds in the country.
It also shows that Nigeria is paying attention to the global trends and wants to align with international efforts to safeguard children in the digital age.
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