The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, in collaboration with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, has convened a high-level stakeholder engagement to advance efforts aimed at protecting children online and fostering a safer digital ecosystem in Nigeria.
The engagement brought together representatives from government agencies, civil society organisations, development partners, academia, industry innovators, and students to discuss practical measures for safeguarding children as digital technologies become increasingly embedded in everyday life.
Speaking at the event, Dr Bosun Tijani, minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, described child online protection as both a national priority and a collective responsibility.
According to the minister, while digital platforms have created unprecedented opportunities for learning, communication, and innovation, they have also exposed children to growing risks, including cyberbullying, harmful content, privacy breaches, and digital addiction.
He noted that findings from a recent stakeholder survey revealed broad public support for stronger measures to protect children in the digital space.
Tijani advocated a balanced approach that combines effective regulation with public awareness campaigns, parental guidance, school-based interventions, and active participation by civil society organisations.
“The protection of children online requires a whole-of-society response,” he stressed, highlighting the need for collaboration among policymakers, educators, parents, technology companies, and community leaders.
Also speaking at the event, Dr Vincent Olatunji, national commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, underscored the urgency of strengthening online safeguards for children, noting that internet use has become an integral part of their daily lives.
Olatunji called for a coordinated national framework that promotes greater legal awareness, encourages a duty-of-care approach among digital platforms, and addresses critical concerns around privacy, age verification, and platform accountability.
He emphasised that meaningful stakeholder engagement remains essential to developing effective policies and interventions capable of protecting children while preserving the benefits of digital innovation.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of findings from a comprehensive public consultation survey that captured Nigerians’ views on the regulation of children’s access to social media platforms. The survey is expected to inform future policy decisions and regulatory frameworks designed to enhance child safety online.
Participants contributed insights on emerging digital risks, responsible technology use, and the role of innovation in building safer online experiences for young people.
The stakeholder engagement reflects the Federal Government’s growing focus on digital trust, online safety, and responsible technology governance as Nigeria continues its digital transformation journey.
