The Lagos State Government has cautioned content creators, influencers, and digital media producers against featuring children in online materials that breach child protection regulations, warning that violators could face criminal charges.
This caution was conveyed in a joint statement signed by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, and the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi.
According to the government, the warning was prompted by increasing concerns over how minors are depicted and involved in digital content that may be harmful, exploitative, or demeaning, especially on social media platforms.
According to the statement, children are a legally protected and vulnerable group under Nigerian law and must not be exposed to content that undermines their dignity, safety or psychological wellbeing.
“Involving minors in content that depicts abuse, sexual themes, harmful stereotypes or unsafe scenarios is not only unethical but also contrary to existing laws designed to protect children,” the statement read.
It cited Sections 25(1) and 26 of the Lagos State Child’s Rights Law (2015), which prohibit exploitative child labour and all forms of child abuse, as well as Sections 135–139 and 141 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State (2015), which deal with sexual offences against children.
The statement also referenced Section 23 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act (2015), which criminalises child pornography and related online offences, and Section 24 of the same Act, which prohibits cyberstalking and online harassment. In addition, Section 32 of the Child’s Rights Act provides for up to 14 years’ imprisonment for the sexual abuse or exploitation of a child.
Reaffirming the state’s position, the Lagos State Government said it maintains zero tolerance for all forms of child abuse and will work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure strict compliance with existing laws.
Content creators were urged to familiarise themselves with applicable legal provisions and to prioritise the safety, dignity and overall wellbeing of children in all forms of creative expression.
The government also encouraged members of the public to report cases of child abuse through designated reporting channels provided, stressing that child protection is a shared responsibility.
