The Lagos State Government has cautioned content creators, influencers and digital media producers against featuring children in online material that breaches child protection laws, warning that violators could face criminal charges.
The warning was issued 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, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi.
According to the government, the advisory follows increasing concern over the way minors are portrayed and involved in digital content that may be harmful, exploitative or degrading, especially across social media platforms.
The statement emphasised that children are recognised as a vulnerable and legally protected group under Nigerian law and must not be exposed to material that compromises their dignity, safety or mental 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.
The government noted that the production, circulation or monetisation of content that sexualises, exploits or places minors at risk amounts to a criminal act under various laws.
It referenced Sections 25(1) and 26 of the Lagos State Child’s Rights Law (2015), which outlaw 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 address sexual offences involving children.
The statement further cited Section 23 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act (2015), which criminalises child pornography and related online crimes, alongside Section 24 of the Act that prohibits cyberstalking and online harassment. It also pointed to Section 32 of the Child’s Rights Act, which prescribes penalties of up to 14 years’ imprisonment for the sexual abuse or exploitation of a child.
Reiterating its stance, the Lagos State Government said it operates a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of child abuse and will collaborate with law enforcement agencies to enforce full compliance with relevant laws.
“We will continue to engage relevant stakeholders and take necessary action to address violations of child protection laws when they occur,” the statement said.
Content creators were advised to acquaint themselves with applicable legal requirements and ensure that the safety, dignity and overall wellbeing of children are upheld in all creative works.
The government also urged the public to report suspected cases of child abuse through designated reporting channels, stressing that safeguarding children is a collective responsibility.
