THE digital age has brought immense opportunities; that has exposed children to unprecedented dangers. A recent study The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health reveals that one in a dozen children globally are victims of online s3xual abuse. For Nigeria, with its burgeoning youth population and increasing internet penetration, this alarming statistic demands urgent attention. Nigerian leaders and top officers must recognize the gravity of this issue and act decisively to protect our children and future Nigeria. Online sexual abuse encompasses a wide range of harmful activities, including grooming, exploitation, and the distribution of explicit content. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their naivety and growing presence on social media, gaming platforms, and other online spaces. In Nigeria, factors such as limited digital literacy, lack of parental supervision, and inadequate enforcement of cyber laws exacerbate the problem. Cybercriminals often exploit gaps in regulation and awareness to target unsuspecting minors. They use sophisticated tactics to gain trust, manipulate, and exploit children. With Nigeria’s youth spending more screen time due to educational needs and social interactions, the risk has escalated.
But it’s preventable, not inevitable. Online child s3xual abuse is more prevalent than other major childhood public health problems like asthma, obesity, and ADHD—and we can protect children if we treat it in a similar way, as a public health problem with a focus on prevention. Talking to children about their safety online is a crucial first step in protecting them from online sexual abuse. Dr. Kara Alaimo, associate professor of communication at Fairleigh Dickinson University, Teaneck, NJ, in the US, emphasized this, explaining that children are likely at greater risk of becoming victims if they aren’t educated about these dangers and how to protect themselves online, spend a lot of screen time and are unsupervised online. Leadership at the highest levels is critical in combating online s3xual abuse. Policymakers, law enforcement officers, and community leaders have a moral and professional obligation to safeguard the most vulnerable members of society. Strengthening legislation and its enforcement is a crucial first step. While Nigeria has made strides with laws such as the Cybercrime Act of 2015, there is an urgent need to bolster these regulations. Gaps in the legal framework must be addressed to ensure that perpetrators of online s3xual abuse face swift and severe consequences. Specialised training for law enforcement officers to handle cybercrime involving minors is also essential.
Digital literacy is a powerful tool in preventing online exploitation. Leaders must champion initiatives that educate children, parents, and teachers about online safety. Schools should incorporate cyber safety into their curricula, and nationwide campaigns should raise awareness about the risks and preventive measures. By equipping communities with knowledge, leaders can empower individuals to protect themselves and their loved ones from online threats. Nigeria must also invest in advanced technologies to detect and combat online sexual abuse. Collaboration with tech companies can facilitate the development of tools to monitor and flag harmful content. Setting up a centralised cybercrime response centre can streamline reporting and action, ensuring that incidents are addressed promptly and effectively.
Tackling this issue requires collaboration among the government, tech companies, NGOs, and international organizations. Public-private partnerships can provide resources, expertise, and platforms to combat online abuse effectively. For instance, partnerships with social media platforms can help in removing harmful content and identifying offenders. Beyond prevention, it is crucial to provide support for victims of online s3xual abuse. Accessible counselling services, rehabilitation programmes, and legal aid must be made available to affected children and their families. Community leaders and organisations can play a significant role in creating safe spaces for recovery. Victim support mechanisms not only aid in healing but also send a strong message of accountability and care to the public. Even as policymakers and officers address systemic issues, they must also take personal steps to safeguard children in their own circles. Monitoring the websites and apps children use is a fundamental measure. Implementing parental controls and ensuring that privacy settings on social media accounts are optimised can significantly reduce risks. Building trust with children is equally important. Encouraging open communication allows children to feel comfortable discussing their online experiences. Teaching them to recognise and report suspicious behaviour can help prevent exploitation before it occurs. Staying informed about emerging online threats and protective technologies is crucial for effective protection. Leaders and parents alike must understand the evolving digital landscape to safeguard their communities.
I should acknowledge how hard our parents work to ensure that their children have the desired life but may they not trade the work with actually being present in their lives to be able to serve as the first responders that the Universe has intended and to be their safest haven. It is no easy task as well, but I am rooting for you and your young person. Leading by example is another vital aspect. Responsible online behaviour among adults can set a standard for children to emulate. Avoiding reckless sharing of personal information and demonstrating caution in digital interactions are practices that everyone should adopt. The revelation that one in 12 children are victims of online sexual abuse is a sobering reminder of the urgent need for action. Nigerian leaders are uniquely positioned to drive change through policy, education, and community engagement. Protecting children from online sexual abuse is not just a legal or institutional responsibility—it is a moral imperative. By prioritising the safety of our young ones, we can ensure that Nigeria’s future is not just connected but also secure. As the nation continues to embrace digital transformation, safeguarding the next generation must remain at the forefront of our collective efforts. With decisive action and sustained commitment, we can create an online environment where children can thrive without fear, paving the way for a brighter and safer future for all.
- Ukoh, an alumnus of the American University of Nigeria, Yola and PhD student at Columbia University, writes in from New York.
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