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MTN puts Internet usage among children at 70%, seeks protection

By Adeyemi Adepetun
01 January 2025   |   6:45 am
MTN has unveiled the ‘Let Children be Children’ report, a comprehensive study aimed at addressing the critical issue of online safety among Nigerian children.

MTN has unveiled the ‘Let Children be Children’ report, a comprehensive study aimed at addressing the critical issue of online safety among Nigerian children.
  
The report revealed alarming statistics about children’s Internet usage in Nigeria, indicating that over 70 per cent of children aged six to 12 are exposed to the Internet.
  


This access, according to the report, created opportunities for learning and social interaction but also exposed them to potential risks such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and online predators.
  
One of the key findings of the report is that a significant number of children are unaware of basic online safety practices. This lack of awareness can lead to vulnerabilities that expose them to various forms of online exploitation.
  
To combat this issue, MTN emphasised the importance of education and awareness campaigns tailored specifically for children, parents, and educators. The company plans to roll out workshops and seminars aimed at equipping stakeholders with essential knowledge about safe Internet usage.
   
In addition to educational initiatives, MTN Nigeria is advocating stronger regulatory frameworks that protect children from online threats. The report called for collaborative efforts between government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and technology companies to create a robust ecosystem that prioritises children’s safety in digital spaces.
  
As part of its ongoing commitment to this cause, MTN Nigeria said it will continue to engage with communities through outreach programs designed to raise awareness about online safety issues. The company believes that by empowering parents and guardians with knowledge about potential dangers online, they can better protect their children.
 
The “Let Children Be Children” report is a comprehensive analysis that highlights the challenges and risks children face online, including cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and privacy concerns. The report drew on extensive research conducted in collaboration with child safety experts, educators, and parents across Nigeria and presents vital insights into children’s online behaviours and their perceptions of safety in the digital space.
  
Chief Corporate Services & Sustainability Officer, MTN Nigeria, Tobe Okigbo, stated that the launch of the report reflected MTN Nigeria and MTN Group’s commitment to child safety on the internet with zero tolerance for all forms of abuse and exploitation.
  
“At MTN, we believe that every child deserves a safe and protected childhood. Our sponsorship of the ‘Let Children Be Children’ report underscores our commitment to ensuring the online safety and well-being of children. As a responsible corporate citizen, we recognise the importance of leveraging technology and resources to promote child safety and protection. This initiative is a key part of our broader commitment to initiatives aimed at protecting children online,” he stated.

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