The Federal Government has commenced consultations on the possibility of introducing age restrictions for social media usage in Nigeria as part of efforts to strengthen online safety for children.

The Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy disclosed that it has opened a public poll to obtain views from parents, teachers, young people and digital experts on how best to regulate children’s access to social media and other digital platforms.

According to the ministry, the move is aimed at developing a balanced and evidence-based policy framework that will protect minors from online dangers while preserving the educational and social benefits of internet access.

In a policy note accompanying the survey, the ministry acknowledged that although the internet offers enormous opportunities for learning, creativity and communication, it also exposes children to risks such as cyberbullying, harmful content, online grooming, misuse of personal data, addictive digital features and emerging threats associated with artificial intelligence.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, stressed the need for public participation in shaping the proposed policy.

Speaking via his X handle, Tijani noted that while the internet has become an important tool for knowledge and interaction, there is an urgent need to safeguard young users from potential harm.

He said: “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.”

He explained that Nigeria’s approach would focus on striking a balance between digital access and adequate protection for minors.

According to him, possible policy measures under consideration include the introduction of age restrictions, improved age verification systems, stronger platform accountability and enhanced regulatory oversight.

Tijani added that public input would play a critical role in ensuring that any framework adopted reflects national priorities and protects the rights of children.

If implemented, Nigeria would join several countries that have introduced restrictions on social media usage among minors.

In December 2025, Australia banned children under the age of 16 from using major social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. Indonesia has also announced plans for a similar ban for users below 16, while Denmark and France are considering restrictions for those under 15.

Over the past decade, Nigeria has recorded significant growth in internet and social media usage, largely driven by increased smartphone adoption and the expansion of mobile broadband networks.

However, the rapid rise has also triggered concerns over minors’ exposure to harmful online content and cases of digital exploitation.