The Federal Government (FG) has announced plans to introduce age restrictions for social media usage in Nigeria, a decisive move aimed at curbing the potential risks associated with underage access to online platforms. This policy initiative, disclosed on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, is part of a broader strategy to protect minors from harmful content and foster responsible digital citizenship among Nigerian youth.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum in Abuja recently, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, emphasized the urgent need for regulatory frameworks that address the growing concerns around child safety in the digital space. According to Dr. Tijani, the government is engaging with industry partners, civil society organizations, and international experts to ensure the proposed age restrictions are both effective and enforceable.
“The safety of our children online cannot be compromised. We are committed to working with all stakeholders to implement age-appropriate controls that align with global best practices,” Dr. Tijani stated. He further highlighted that the new regulations will require social media companies operating in Nigeria to deploy robust age-verification technologies, ensuring that only individuals above the stipulated age threshold can create or maintain social media accounts.
Industry watchers note that this move mirrors similar measures adopted in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, where concerns about online safety and mental health have prompted tighter regulations for tech companies. In Nigeria, the initiative is expected to spark significant conversations among parents, educators, and the digital industry ecosystem, particularly regarding enforcement and privacy implications.
While the specifics of the age limit are yet to be finalized, the FG assured the public that there would be comprehensive stakeholder consultations before the policy comes into force. The administration reiterated its commitment to digital inclusion, stressing that the objective is not to stifle innovation or expression, but to create a safer, more responsible online environment for all Nigerians.
