Nigeria Weighs Internet Age Restrictions to Safeguard Children Online — Minister Announces Public Consultation!
Reported by Marian opeyemi fasesan Editor -in- chief | Sele Media Africa
The Federal Government of Nigeria is considering introducing age restrictions for children using social media and other digital platforms as part of broader efforts to strengthen online safety and protect minors from harmful internet content.
The proposal was announced by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, who confirmed that the government has launched a nationwide consultation to gather public input on potential policies regulating children’s access to online platforms.
According to the ministry, the consultation process invites parents, educators, young people, technology professionals, and civil society groups to contribute perspectives that will shape a balanced regulatory framework aimed at protecting children while preserving the educational and social benefits of internet access.
Growing Concerns Over Digital Risks
Officials say the move is motivated by growing concerns about the risks young people face online, including cyberbullying, exposure to harmful or explicit content, online grooming, misuse of personal data, and the addictive nature of some digital platforms.
While acknowledging the transformative role of the internet in learning, creativity, and communication, Tijani stressed that stronger safeguards are necessary as internet penetration and smartphone use continue to rise across the country.
“As Nigeria evaluates potential policy approaches for protection of children online, including age restrictions and improved age-verification systems, public input is essential,” the minister said while announcing the consultation.
Evidence-Based Policy Approach
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy said the consultation is designed to guide an evidence-based policy process. Feedback collected from the survey and stakeholder engagement will help determine whether Nigeria should introduce formal legal limits on social media use for minors or adopt other regulatory measures such as stricter platform accountability and verification systems.
The initiative reflects growing concerns among policymakers and child protection advocates about the impact of digital exposure on young users, particularly as millions of Nigerian adolescents spend several hours daily on social media platforms.
Nigeria Joins Global Debate on Youth Social Media Access
Nigeria’s consideration of internet age restrictions mirrors a broader global debate on how governments should regulate children’s access to social media platforms.
Several countries have begun introducing or considering similar measures. In 2025, Australia implemented one of the world’s strictest social media regulations, banning access for users under 16. Meanwhile, Indonesia has also announced plans to restrict social media use for minors as part of efforts to curb online harms affecting young people.
Experts say these policies reflect rising global concern over the psychological, social, and security risks associated with unrestricted online access for children.
Balancing Protection With Digital Opportunity
Authorities in Nigeria emphasize that the goal is not to limit innovation or digital learning but to create a safer online environment for young users.
The government says any final regulatory framework will seek to balance child protection with digital inclusion, ensuring that Nigerian children can benefit from technology while being shielded from exploitation and harmful online experiences.
Public feedback from the consultation will inform the next phase of policymaking, which could include legislative proposals or regulatory guidelines for digital platforms operating in the country.
Sources: Channels Television, Techpoint Africa, Nairametrics, The Whistler, Associated Press
Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.
Share this:
Discover more from Sele Media Africa
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
