Nigeria: Advocates call for stronger child protection measures

Child rights advocates in Nigeria are calling for enhanced protections against online sexual exploitation and physical abuse following several high-profile incidents. During a session organized by the Foundation for Digital Justice, experts emphasized the need for greater accountability from social media platforms, suggesting that platform owners should bear responsibility when abuse occurs on their services. Advocates also urged Nigeria to develop independent digital regulations rather than relying on foreign standards.

In a separate incident in Rivers State, police rescued a 15-year-old girl from a residence in Port Harcourt, where she had allegedly been confined to a toilet for an extended period while working as a domestic helper. The couple responsible for her care was arrested as investigations continue. These cases have intensified discussions regarding the systemic vulnerabilities of children to both digital exploitation and physical cruelty within the country.