Nigeria has begun consultations on plans to introduce age restrictions for social media use, as Africa’s most populous country joins the global trend of strengthening protections for children in the digital space.
The Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy this week launched a nationwide survey inviting parents, educators, young people and technology experts to help shape policies aimed at regulating children’s access to social media and other digital platforms.
The consultation comes amid rising concerns over online risks facing Nigerian minors as smartphone ownership and internet usage continue to increase across the country.
Communications and Digital Economy Minister Bosun Tijani said the government is seeking a balanced approach that protects children while preserving the educational and social benefits of digital access.
“While the internet offers significant opportunities for learning, creativity, and communication, it also exposes children to risks such as cyberbullying, harmful content, online exploitation, misuse of personal data, and emerging challenges linked to artificial intelligence tools,” Tijani said.
The proposed framework could include age restrictions on social media platforms, stronger age-verification systems, and tougher accountability requirements for technology companies.
“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,” Tijani added.
The move follows alarming findings from a 2025 study cited by Nigeria’s telecom regulator. According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), nine in ten Nigerian children face at least one form of cyber risk online.
Speaking during a Child Online Safety Forum in Abuja last year, Shirley Ewang, lead for policy and advocacy at Gatefield, said the report revealed widespread exposure to abuse online.
“Findings show that 97% of Nigerian children have experienced some form of sexual exploitation online, while 89 percent reported receiving unsolicited sexual content or requests,” she said.
Nigeria’s push reflects a broader global trend as governments tighten online safety rules for minors.
Australia, for instance, implemented a social media ban for children under 16 in December 2025, requiring platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to restrict access. Indonesia has also announced plans to bar under-16s from social media, while France and Denmark are pursuing similar restrictions for users under 15.
Similarly, Nigeria is confident that feedback from the public survey will help shape an evidence-based policy framework aimed at creating a safer digital environment for children.
Share
