Nigeria Considers Social Media Age Limits- Bosun Tijani

Nigeria has begun exploring new rules that may limit how young people access social media platforms. The Federal Government of Nigeria has opened consultations on possible age limits as part of efforts to improve online safety for children.

The initiative comes from the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, which has launched a nationwide public poll. Through the survey, the ministry wants parents, teachers, young people and digital experts to share their views on regulating children’s access to social platforms.

Officials say the goal is to design a balanced policy. The plan should protect minors from online harm while still allowing them to benefit from the internet’s learning opportunities.

Rising concerns around online safety

Authorities say children now spend more time online than ever before. As internet access grows, so do concerns about digital risks.

The ministry explained that the internet offers many benefits for education, creativity and communication. However, it also exposes young users to several dangers.

These risks include cyberbullying, harmful content and online grooming. Children may also face misuse of personal data and addictive platform features. Meanwhile, experts warn about new threats linked to artificial intelligence tools.

The ministry therefore believes that social media age restriction Nigeria discussions must consider both safety and access. Officials say policies must reflect national priorities and protect children’s rights.In a statement linked to the consultation, the ministry noted that the country needs a policy that matches Nigeria’s digital realities.

“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.

Government seeks public input

The supervising minister, Bosun Tijani, also encouraged citizens to contribute to the discussion. He explained that the government wants broad participation before final decisions are made.According to Tijani, the internet creates valuable opportunities for young people. Yet the risks remain significant if proper safeguards do not exist.“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,” he said.

He added that public input will help shape a policy that balances digital freedom with stronger protection.

“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,” Tijani said.

A global shift toward age limits

Nigeria is not alone in considering stricter digital rules for minors. Several countries have recently introduced or debated similar policies.

For example, Australia implemented a nationwide restriction in December 2025. The rule blocks social media access for users under 16 and requires platforms to enforce stronger verification systems.Likewise, Indonesia has announced plans to restrict social media use among children under 16. Meanwhile, lawmakers in Denmark are pushing for limits on users below 15 years old.

A similar proposal has also emerged in France. French lawmakers recently backed a bill that would prevent children under 15 from using social media platforms.

Click HERE to contribute to the poll.