The Federal Government has announced that it is evaluating possible policy approaches aimed at protecting children online, including the introduction of age restrictions and stronger digital safety measures.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Supervising Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, said that while the internet offers valuable opportunities for learning, creativity and communication, it also exposes children to several risks.
According to him, these risks include cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, online exploitation, misuse of personal data, and emerging threats linked to artificial intelligence tools.
Tijani explained that the government is currently considering several policy options designed to strengthen online safety for children. These include age restrictions, improved age-verification systems, stronger platform accountability, and enhanced regulatory oversight.
“As Nigeria evaluates potential policy approaches for protection of children online, including age restrictions, improved age verification systems, platform accountability measures, and enhanced regulatory oversight, public input is essential,” he said.
He noted that gathering feedback from Nigerians will help ensure that any policy framework adopted reflects national priorities and protects children’s rights while responding to the realities of the country’s digital environment.
The minister encouraged parents, educators, young people, digital professionals and other stakeholders to participate in a public survey designed to gather views on the issue.
According to the ministry, the survey will support the development of evidence-based policies that balance online safety with digital innovation and access.
Nigeria has experienced rapid growth in internet and social media usage over the past decade. The expansion has been largely driven by increased smartphone adoption and the spread of mobile broadband networks.
The National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Vincent Olatunji, recently disclosed that more than 40 million Nigerians spend an average of six hours daily on social media platforms.
Officials say the increasing digital engagement highlights the urgent need for policies that safeguard children while allowing them to benefit from the opportunities provided by the internet.
The government said the outcome of the consultation process will guide future regulations and initiatives aimed at strengthening online protection for minors across Nigeria.
