By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata
The House of Representatives has passed the Child Online Access Protection Bill, seeking stronger safeguards for Nigerian children against online violence, abuse, and exploitation.
Sponsored by Olumide Osoba (APC-Ogun) and Babajimi Benson (APC-Lagos), the bill scaled third reading on Thursday after the House adopted the Committee on Justice’s report.
The legislation outlines clearer obligations for digital service providers, strengthens reporting mechanisms, and addresses rising cases of harmful online content targeting minors.
Lawmakers said existing laws are inadequate to tackle evolving digital threats.
According to the committee, the bill demonstrates the National Assembly’s commitment to the safety and digital protection of Nigerian children.
The bill now heads to the Senate for concurrence before being sent to the President for assent.
