The Federal Government of Nigeria has opened a conversation about whether children in Nigeria should face age restrictions on social media.
On Tuesday, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, announced that the government has launched a public consultation to gather opinions from Nigerians on potential measures aimed at protecting children online.
The announcement was made via his official X account, where the minister highlighted both the opportunities and the risks that come with children having access to the internet. 
“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 wrote.
He explained that Nigeria is currently exploring different policy options that could help create safer digital spaces for children.
“As Nigeria evaluates potential policy approaches for the protection of children online, including age restrictions, improved age verification systems, platform accountability measures and enhanced regulatory oversight, public input is essential to ensure that any framework adopted reflects national priorities, respects children’s rights and responds to the realities of Nigeria’s digital landscape,” he added.
To make the process inclusive, Tijani also shared a link to a public survey, inviting Nigerians to share their opinions.
According to the minister, parents, educators, young people, digital professionals and other stakeholders are especially encouraged to participate so the government can develop evidence-based policies around children’s online safety.
Other African Countries Considering Similar Rules
Nigeria is not the only African country having this conversation. Some other countries moving towards the same path are:
South Africa
Although no nationwide ban currently exists, discussions around age verification and tighter regulations are currently ongoing.
Kenya
Kenyan lawmakers have also raised concerns about children’s exposure to harmful online content. One of the proposed digital safety discussions in the country includes requiring stronger age-verification systems.
With millions of young people active online, policymakers are now considering whether stricter national rules may be needed.
Countries such as Australia have also taken steps by banning children under 16 from opening social media accounts.
What Happens Next For Nigeria?
The government says the public consultation will help shape whatever policy direction it eventually takes.
Depending on the outcome, potential measures could include stronger age checks, increased platform accountability and tighter oversight of how social media platforms operate in Nigeria.
With social media playing such a major role in how young people communicate, learn and entertain themselves, the discussion is likely to spark strong opinions across the country.
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