The Federal Government says it will introduce guidelines to regulate internet access for children below 16 years in the coming weeks as part of efforts to protect minors from cyber threats and harmful online exposure.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed this on Thursday, September 10, in Abuja at the launch of the Zero-Rated Access to Education Platforms initiative, organised in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). He said digital learning expansion must be matched with strong cybersecurity measures and responsible content regulation.
Alausa stressed that free access to educational platforms must be limited to credible, safe and curriculum-aligned content. NCC Board member, Ikechukwu Ugwuegede, said zero-rated access would help bridge the digital divide by giving students in rural and urban communities equal opportunities to access approved academic resources.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND, Sen. Mohammed Muntari, commended telecommunications operators for supporting education through corporate social responsibility, while lawmakers pledged oversight to improve connectivity in underserved areas.
Musician and education advocate Teni also urged students to use the free data opportunity to develop skills and prepare for the global economy.
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