A new study reveals that a staggering 79% of Nigerian children feel unsafe online, according to findings presented by Techsocietal.
These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for enhanced digital safety measures and greater awareness among parents, educators, and policymakers. The findings were disclosed by Gabriel Odunsi, Techsocietal’s Programmes Manager, at the organization's 2026 Safer Internet Day workshop for educators, held recently in Lagos. The workshop aimed to equip educators with the tools and knowledge necessary to guide children through the complexities of the online environment, but the data presented painted a stark picture of the challenges ahead.
Mr. Odunsi further elaborated on the survey's disturbing revelations. He stated that the research indicated a shocking 97 percent of Nigerian children had experienced unwanted sexual approaches through various online platforms. These platforms included chatrooms, social networking sites, and emails, highlighting the pervasive nature of this threat across multiple digital avenues. This particular statistic is incredibly troubling, suggesting that almost every child engaging online in Nigeria has encountered a form of predatory behavior, demanding immediate and comprehensive intervention.The survey also shed light on the widespread access to the internet among Nigerian youth. Mr. Odunsi noted that the findings indicated 93 percent of children aged 11 to 16 had accessed the internet on phones or other digital devices. This high rate of access, while offering immense opportunities for learning and connection, simultaneously exposes a vast number of young people to the inherent dangers of the internet without adequate safeguards. It demonstrates that the digital presence of children is not just a niche issue but a mainstream reality that requires systemic attention.
The combination of widespread internet access, a high percentage of children feeling unsafe, and an almost universal experience of unwanted sexual approaches paints a critical picture for child online safety in Nigeria. This data calls for a multi sectoral approach involving government bodies, law enforcement, technology companies, educational institutions, and parents.
Experts at the workshop emphasized the importance of digital literacy education for children, teaching them how to identify and report inappropriate content or contact. They also stressed the need for parents to be more actively involved in monitoring their children's online activities, fostering open communication, and implementing parental control tools. For educators, the role is crucial in integrating internet safety into the curriculum and providing a safe space for children to discuss their online experiences.
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Furthermore, there's a strong call for technology companies to implement more robust safety features, improve reporting mechanisms, and collaborate more effectively with law enforcement to identify and prosecute online predators. The legal framework surrounding cybercrime and child protection online also needs continuous review and strengthening to keep pace with evolving threats.
The 2026 Safer Internet Day workshop served as a stark reminder that while the internet offers incredible potential for growth and development, it also harbors significant risks, particularly for vulnerable populations like children. The statistics presented by Techsocietal are a wake up call for all stakeholders to prioritize and intensify efforts to create a safer digital environment for every Nigerian child.
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