Protect Our Children: FG Plans Age Limits For Social Media Use

Protect Our Children: FG Plans Age Limits For Social Media Use

The Federal Government has officially started looking into setting age restrictions for children using social media in Nigeria. This move is aimed at making the internet a safer place for our kids across the nation.

To make sure this works, the Ministry of Communications is asking for your opinion through a public poll. They want to hear from parents, teachers, and young people before they finalize the new rules.

The government is concerned about the "dark side" of the internet. With more people using smartphones than ever, children are being exposed to cyberbullying and harmful content. Online predators (grooming). Data theft and privacy risks. Social media addiction and new risks from Artificial Intelligence (AI).

New data from January 2026 shows just how fast we are going digital:

 The total number of active phone lines in Nigeria is 182 Million.

 MTN remains the biggest network with 94 million users, followed by Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile.

 Nigerians spend an average of 6 hours every day on social media.

 More than half of the country (53%) now has high-speed internet access.

The Minister of Communications, Dr. Bosun Tijani, explained that while the internet is great for learning and creativity, the government must protect minors. Nigeria is looking to follow the footsteps of countries like France and Australia, which have already started regulating how kids use apps like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

In related news, TikTok has promised to spend $200,000 to help educate people across Africa on how to use AI tools safely and responsibly.