The House of Representatives Committee on Justice, led by Chairman Rep. Olumide Osoba, has called for immediate action to safeguard the well-being of children on the internet.

This urgent plea was made during a public hearing in Abuja on the enactment of the Child Online Access Protection Bill 2023 and other matters concerning online violence against Nigerian children.

“The safety of our children in this digital era must be our top priority,” stated Rep. Osoba. “While the internet offers incredible opportunities for learning and growth, it also poses significant risks, including cyberbullying and exploitation.”

The proposed bill aims not only to recognize the dangers of online violence but also to implement effective measures to prevent and address such incidents. By restricting access to harmful content, imposing stricter penalties, and promoting digital literacy programs, the committee seeks to create a safer online environment for children.

“This bill emphasizes the importance of fostering responsible digital citizenship,” added Rep. Osoba. “Through education and awareness initiatives, we can empower children to navigate the online world safely.”

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, emphasized the crucial role of parents in protecting children from internet-related harm. He stressed the necessity of legislation to ensure comprehensive protection for children online.

“We must adopt global best practices to shield our children from exploitation and abuse in the digital age,” asserted Hon. Abbas.

The committee’s call for urgent action underscores the importance of collaborative efforts among parents, educators, internet service providers, and the government to create a safer online environment for Nigerian children.