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By Nana Theresa Timothy and Osasome, C.O
A recent report by the Child Protection Initiative Against Cyber Crime (C-C Pro), titled the 2024 Nigerian Teen Cyber Awareness Report, underscores the critical role of data in identifying both the risks and benefits of internet usage among Nigerian teens. The report reveals alarming statistics about online dangers. These include sexual exploitation, cyberbullying, exposure to nudity, and the excessive time spent on gaming and social media.
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The findings indicate that 54% of Nigerian children aged 8-16 are exposed to one or more forms of cyber abuse. With internet access growing in Nigeria, these risks are becoming more prevalent, necessitating urgent action.
The 2024 Nigerian Teen Cyber Awareness Report was unveiled during the ngTeenCyberFest 3.0 event at Olumawu School, Wuse II, Abuja. Themed “From Ideas to Impact: Fostering Innovation in the Age of AI”, the festival attracted tech and development experts. All of them helped to address the benefits and dangers of the internet for young people.
Internet as a Double-Edged Sword
Haruna Sani Sani, Director General of the Nasarawa State Information Technology and Digital Economy Agency (NASITDEA), highlighted that the internet offers vast opportunities. But it also presents significant risks for young users. He emphasized the need for a tailored approach rooted in Nigeria’s values, rather than blindly adopting foreign internet models.
Similarly, Engr. Morenikeji Ayodele Aniye, CEO of Hotspot Network Limited, and Engr. Ikechukwu Nnamani, CEO of Digital Realty, stressed the importance of investing in youth to channel the power of the internet towards positive development. Both highlighted the immense potential of Nigeria’s youthful population, which comprises over 60% of the country’s 220 million people.
Cyber Risks and Unauthorised Data Access
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), delivered a compelling speech on the dangers of unauthorised access to sensitive personal information. He urged the need for collective action to promote data privacy and protect the younger generation from cyber exploitation. He was represented by Ms. Adaobi Nwankwo. Dr. Olatunji noted that teens often fail to take necessary precautions in protecting their online data, leaving them vulnerable.
Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Daser David, President/CEO of the Digital Bridge Institute, called for stronger legislative frameworks. This would be in addition to improved online safety measures to protect minors from cyber threats. He praised C-C Pro for its comprehensive efforts in raising awareness on data privacy and online child safety.
Exposure to Harmful Content: A Growing Concern
Experts at the event, including Ikagbemi Modupe-Adeniyi, pointed to the devastating effects of harmful online content on vulnerable children and adolescents. Exposure to inappropriate content—ranging from cybercrime and misinformation to pornography—can lead to long-term negative consequences. These include but not limited to increased risk of online criminal activity, self-harm, and suicide.
The report further highlighted that increased time spent on social media correlates with higher risks of cyberbullying, social anxiety, and depression among teens. Speakers urged for better guidance and parental control on internet usage, noting that social media addiction is a growing problem.
Hackathon Highlights and Awards
The festival also included a hackathon featuring participants from various secondary schools across Abuja. The list include Government Science and Technology College (GSTC) Garki, BANKYES Private School, and others. The students were grouped into five teams to brainstorm innovative solutions to societal challenges.
Team D (Techlords), comprising students from different schools, emerged as the hackathon winners with their app proposal to teach job acquisition skills to children. Their innovative solution aimed at providing career guidance based on user interests, with sustainability driven by ads and subscription models.
Fireside Chat: Navigating Cyber Challenges
During the ngTeenCyberFest 3.0 fireside chat, participants, including students and members of Child Love and Protection Advocacy Initiative (CLAPAI), shared personal experiences on cyberbullying and the emotional toll it takes. Panelists discussed both the opportunities and threats within the digital world, emphasizing the need for responsible online behavior.
Recognizing Digital Innovators
The event concluded with an awards ceremony honoring the innovative spirit of the young participants and their contributions to Nigeria’s digital landscape. Team D received medals for their hackathon win, while other innovators were recognized for their achievements in cybersecurity and tech-driven solutions.
In addition, ngTeenCyberFest honoured corporate players and individuals for their commitment to making cyberspace healthy for young people. The list included Olumawu School, Aniye, Sani, Nnamani, Ekueme, Chairman of UNICCON Group, and Owoeye, among others
The ngTeenCyberFest continues to provide a crucial platform for nurturing Nigeria’s next generation of digital leaders. According to Delmwa Gogwim, CEO of C-C Pro, the festival equips students with the skills and awareness needed to excel in the digital world while ensuring they remain safe and responsible in cyberspace.
