The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has launched a nationwide public consultation on proposed regulations aimed at improving online safety for children using social media and digital platforms.
Announcing the initiative on Tuesday, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, said the consultation is designed to gather feedback from the public before the government adopts any formal regulatory framework.
The ministry developed the survey in partnership with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), inviting parents, educators, young people, digital professionals, and other stakeholders to share their views on possible policy measures.
Addressing rising online risks
According to Tijani, while the internet provides significant opportunities for learning, creativity, and communication, it also exposes children to several risks.
These include cyberbullying, harmful content, online exploitation, misuse of personal data, and emerging threats linked to artificial intelligence tools.
“While the internet offers significant opportunities, it also presents real risks for children online. Our goal is to develop policies that protect young users while maintaining access to the benefits of digital technology,” the minister said.
Key measures under consideration
Among the policy options being considered are:
- Age restrictions on access to certain digital platforms
- Stronger age verification systems
- Increased accountability for social media platforms
- Enhanced regulatory oversight for child protection online
The proposed framework is rooted in Section 31 of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, which provides legal backing for protecting children’s data and digital rights.
Evidence-based policy approach
The ministry noted that governments around the world are adopting different approaches to addressing child safety online, stressing that Nigeria’s policy must reflect the country’s digital realities, national priorities, and the rights of children.
Officials said the consultation is intended to ensure that any new regulation is evidence-based and inclusive, rather than imposed through a top-down process.
Responses gathered through the survey will be used strictly for policy research and regulatory development, the ministry added.
