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Digital technology has transformed how we communicate, learn, shop, and entertain ourselves, providing children with a wealth of opportunities. The internet allows children to access information and interact with others in exciting new ways.
However, the tragic story of Cynthia Osokogu, a 24-year-old student who was lured to Lagos by criminals she met on Facebook, highlights the dangers children face online. Her murder serves as a stark reminder that, while the internet offers many benefits, it also opens the door to risks like cyberbullying and online exploitation.
Today’s children are more exposed to these dangers than ever before. They spend more time online at younger ages, using various devices for different activities, which makes them vulnerable to cyber-attacks. The rise of digital technology has brought about concerns about child safety online. While the internet offers many positives, it’s crucial to find a balance to ensure children stay safe.
To address these concerns, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) conducted a study called “Child Online Protection: Young Children and Digital Technology – A Survey Across Nigeria.” This survey, which took place from June to October 2020, aimed to understand how children in Nigeria interact with technology and identify the risks they face.
The study gathered responses from 7,013 participants across the country, with 81% of them being children aged 4-16. The results revealed that children in Nigeria are spending too much time online, with some even spending up to ten hours a day on their devices. This excessive screen time has raised alarms, as it could lead to addiction. According to a global report, Nigeria ranks poorly when it comes to children’s online safety.
The study also showed that many children access the internet through mobile phones, often without proper supervision. A significant number of children aged 11-16 (93%) and younger children (45%) go online using their phones, which leaves them more exposed to online risks than if they were using devices at school or in controlled environments.
Another worrying trend revealed by the study is the lack of communication between parents and children about online activities. Many children, especially older ones, don’t turn to their parents for advice on how to stay safe online. This gap in communication means children may not be fully aware of the dangers they face.
The study also highlighted the risks children encounter online, with pornography and cyberbullying being among the biggest concerns. A large percentage of children aged 11-16 (97%) see unwanted sexual advances as the most serious online threat, while only 30% consider cyberbullying a major issue. This suggests that children may not fully understand or acknowledge the risks they face online.
The survey also found that many children engage in risky online behaviors, such as adding strangers to their social media friends list. In fact, 80% of children in urban areas admitted to connecting with strangers online, and half of them had discussed sensitive topics like sex with these strangers. These behaviors can put children at significant risk.
The study revealed that 90% of children in Nigeria have encountered at least one online risk. This widespread exposure to cyber threats has led experts to describe it as a “cyber risk pandemic” affecting children globally, especially in developing countries like Nigeria.
In response to these dangers, the Nigerian government has made efforts to protect children online. Various agencies, such as the NCC, NITDA, and EFCC, have worked on strategies to safeguard children’s online experiences. However, the study calls for stronger enforcement of laws, including the Nigerian Cybercrime Act of 2015, which addresses issues like cyberstalking and child pornography.
The study also recommends creating a law to protect children’s online privacy, requiring websites and apps to obtain parental consent before collecting personal data from children. Companies should be held accountable for ensuring their platforms are safe and secure for children to use.
Additionally, the study stresses the importance of teaching both children and parents about digital literacy. Parents should be more involved in their children’s online activities, and children need to learn how to protect themselves, avoid oversharing, and practice safe online behavior.
In conclusion, while digital technology offers children many opportunities, it also exposes them to significant risks. It is crucial for the government, companies, and parents to take steps to ensure children are safe online. By raising awareness, enforcing stronger laws, and promoting digital literacy, we can help protect children from the dangers of the digital world.
