The Federal Government is preparing a new policy that could change how children under 16 use the internet.
The plan is aimed at protecting children from unsafe content and other risks in the digital space.
Education Minister Tunji Alausa disclosed the plan while speaking to students and other stakeholders.
He said the government supports wider internet access but wants children to use safer online platforms.
Alausa warned that educational internet access should not give children unrestricted access to every online service.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, as we expand digital access, however, we must remain focused on quality. Zero rating should not mean indiscriminate access to every platform that describes itself as educational,” he said.
He stressed that online materials provided to students must meet safety and education standards.
“The content made available to our children must be appropriate, credible, safe, and aligned with our educational objectives and our curriculum.”
The minister described the planned measure as a preview of a wider policy yet to be announced.
“At this point, l’m just going to give a sneak preview to what will come. That will be announced by the security people in the next coming days or week. It will be regulating internet access to children below 16 years old,” Alausa said.
He said security officials would later explain how the policy would work.
“Further announcement on this will be coming from our security staffs and they will roll out how this country will protect the dignity of every child in this country,” he said.
The proposed internet regulation for children comes as Nigeria expands digital learning across schools.
The policy could affect how Nigerians below 16 access online platforms.
Further details are expected from the relevant security authorities.
