Nigeria is considering social media age restrictions, begins public consultation

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has launched a public consultation to gather citizens’ views on proposals to introduce age restrictions for children using social media platforms in Nigeria.

The move forms part of efforts to strengthen protections for minors on social media and other digital platforms, amid growing concerns about online safety.

The consultation, conducted by NDPC in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, seeks input from parents, educators, young people, digital professionals, and other stakeholders as policymakers consider possible regulatory approaches to safeguarding children online in Nigeria.

Communications minister Bosun Tijani said in a statement posted on X that while the internet provides opportunities for education and innovation, it also exposes children to increasing digital risks.

According to the minister, governments worldwide are adopting various policy approaches to improve child online safety, including age restrictions on social media use, stronger age-verification systems, enhanced platform accountability measures, and tighter regulatory oversight.

Examining the best global age restriction practices for Nigeria

Tijani said the consultation process will help Nigeria examine options for strengthening protections for minors online through clearer platform rules and more effective regulation.

“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 exposure to artificial intelligence tools,” Tijani said.

Also read: Like Australia, should Nigeria ban social media for under-16s? Experts share opinion

In Nigeria, policymakers are now assessing whether similar safeguards could be introduced to improve online protection for children, while ensuring that any regulatory framework reflects national priorities and the realities of the country’s digital ecosystem.

NDPC to deploy an evidence-based approach using the Data Protection Act

The NDPC stated that the survey aims to assist policymakers in developing evidence-based regulations specifically tailored to Nigeria’s digital environment and data protection framework, referencing Section 31 of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023.

“The document outlines poll and survey questions designed to gauge public opinion on the implementation of regulations for social media platforms in Nigeria, aligning with the protections under Section 31 of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA), 2023.” They added.

Responses collected through consultations will help shape policies aimed at creating a safer digital environment for children in Nigeria, according to the NDPC.

Participants are encouraged to share their opinions through the online survey. The commission assures that all information collected will be used solely for consultation purposes.

Countries around the world are tightening regulations on children’s social media use. Australia has passed a law requiring platforms to verify users’ ages and limit access for those under 16. The UK and EU are implementing similar measures for age verification and parental consent.

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