The Federal Government has begun consultations on possible age restrictions for social media use in Nigeria, inviting the public to share views on how to better protect children online.
The initiative is being coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, which has launched a public poll as the first step in shaping a national policy.
According to the ministry, parents, teachers, young people and digital experts are encouraged to participate in the survey to help determine how Nigeria should regulate children’s access to social media and other digital platforms.
Officials say the goal is to create an evidence-based policy that protects children while allowing them to benefit from the opportunities the internet offers.
In a policy note released alongside the survey, the ministry highlighted the need for a balanced approach.
“As Nigeria evaluates possible policy options, it is important that any approach reflects national priorities, respects children’s rights, and responds effectively to the realities of the country’s digital landscape,” the ministry stated.
The supervising minister, Bosun Tijani, also addressed the initiative, noting that while the internet offers valuable opportunities for learning and creativity, it also exposes young users to significant risks.
“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.
He added that public participation will play a key role in determining the final policy framework.
“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,” he said.
Global trend toward social media age limits
If Nigeria adopts age restrictions, it would join several countries already introducing similar regulations.
Australia introduced one of the world’s strictest rules in December 2025, banning social media use for children under 16 and requiring platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to enforce the restriction.
Lawmakers in France also passed legislation in January 2026 banning social media use for children under 15, a move supported by President Emmanuel Macron.
Similar plans have been announced in Denmark and Indonesia, both citing concerns about child safety and excessive screen time.
Globally, more than 40 countries are currently studying or implementing age restrictions for social media use.
Rising online activity in Nigeria
The issue has become more urgent as internet use continues to expand in Nigeria.
According to Vincent Olatunji, more than 40 million Nigerians spend around six hours daily on social media platforms.
Authorities say the level of online activity highlights the need for stronger awareness about the risks associated with sharing personal data and interacting online.
Child protection groups have repeatedly warned that minors are especially vulnerable to threats such as online exploitation, cyberbullying and exposure to harmful content.
Through the ongoing consultation, the government aims to gather enough public input before deciding whether Nigeria should introduce age limits, stronger verification systems or stricter rules for digital platforms operating in the country.
