Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has called for restricting social media access for Nigerians under 16. He argued such safeguards are needed to protect children’s well-being in an increasingly digital world. Falana cited global trends, noting, “Australia has just insisted that you cannot access social media if you are under 16.”
He said, “Well, like I did say, there is an ongoing debate around the world with respect to the use of telephones or access to the social media by young people. Some countries are restricting it. Australia has just insisted that you cannot access social media if you are under 16.
“And, once it is adopted by the United States or UK, in particular, Nigeria, being a neo-colony, will also be bound to follow suit. But one way or the other, it certainly has to be regulated in the interest of our children.
“Do you know what I mean by a neo-colonial country? A country that claims to be independent but is still very much colored in all circumstances. Nigeria is the color of the United Kingdom.”
Separately, Falana rejected the notion that Nigerians are inherently criminal, attributing crime to poverty and unemployment. He also criticized the educational system, noting many local artisans are poorly trained, leading to jobs being taken by foreigners. The remarks were made at the inaugural Dare2Debate competition in Lagos.