The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting online safety and digital well-being through a partnership with TikTok under its “Safer Together” initiative.
The Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Abdullahi, made the remarks at a TikTok Online Safety and Digital Awareness Programme held on Thursday in Abuja. The event, hosted in collaboration with NITDA and Data Science Nigeria, aims to expand the initiative’s reach across regions, including Lagos and Abuja.
Abdullahi, represented by the Acting Director of Digital Literacy and Capacity Building, Ahmed Tambuwa, emphasized Nigeria’s leading role in Africa’s digital transformation. He noted the country’s large tech ecosystem, growing digital startups, and increasingly connected population.
“We are experiencing a digital revolution that promises to reshape every facet of our society,” Abdullahi stated.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by rapid technological advances—such as misinformation, cyberbullying, and digital exploitation—he highlighted NITDA’s regulatory framework, which balances digital risks with the need for innovation and inclusivity.
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The Director-General also praised TikTok’s efforts to enhance user safety, through features like screen time management and anti-bullying tools. He emphasized the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to achieve digital wellness, involving government, private sector players, educators, parents, and civil society.
The Head of Public Policy/Government Relations for West Africa at TikTok, Tokunbo Ibrahim, stressed the need for collective efforts in creating a safer digital environment. Ibrahim explained that the Safer Together initiative aligns with TikTok’s mission to inspire creativity and bring joy in a secure online space.
“Safer Together really means working together,” Ibrahim said. “The public, TikTok, the government—everyone has a role to play in keeping the internet safe. One party alone cannot achieve this goal.”
Ibrahim called on all stakeholders to join the initiative, reinforcing TikTok’s commitment to promoting safety, trust, and responsible digital interaction.
Abdullahi concluded by underscoring NITDA’s target to ensure 70% of Nigerians are digitally literate by 2027, calling on all stakeholders to support the Safer Together initiative to shape a safer digital landscape for Nigerians.
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