The Federal Government has initiated a nationwide consultation to explore potential age restrictions for social media use in Nigeria, aiming to safeguard children while ensuring they benefit from digital tools. The Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has launched a public poll inviting parents, teachers, youth, and digital experts to share their views on how children should access online platforms safely.
Officials emphasized that the consultation will guide the creation of an evidence-based policy balancing the opportunities and risks of internet use for children. While digital platforms provide tools for learning, creativity, and communication, they also expose young users to cyberbullying, harmful content, online grooming, misuse of personal data, and emerging threats tied to artificial intelligence tools.
Minister Bosun Tijani highlighted the importance of public participation in shaping any 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 to ensure that any framework adopted reflects national priorities and respects children’s rights,” he said.
The move aligns Nigeria with a growing number of countries implementing age limits on social media. Australia banned access for children under 16 in December 2025, while France, Denmark, and Indonesia have introduced similar restrictions, citing concerns about screen time, child safety, and online exploitation. Recent global tracking indicates that over 40 nations are examining or instituting some form of age-related regulation for digital platforms.
Nigeria’s social media landscape has expanded rapidly, with more than 40 million users spending an average of six hours daily on platforms, according to the Nigeria Data Protection Commission. Authorities say the consultation will provide critical insight into the best approach for managing children’s access, strengthening verification systems, and creating rules that protect minors while promoting responsible digital engagement.