The Centre for Family Rescue, Law and Development (CENFARLD) has called for stronger measures to protect children online, expressing concern over the growing dependence of young people on digital devices and social media.
Speaking at the Children’s Book Fair for children aged three to six years in Lokoja, themed “Online Safety for Kids: The Way Forward,” former Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Kogi State chapter, and Interim Coordinator of the Child Protection Network, Mrs. Ajuma Lilian Okolo, stressed the need for collective action to shield children from the harmful effects of excessive screen exposure.
She noted that children are increasingly turning to screens for learning and entertainment, often without adequate supervision or alternative educational opportunities.
Describing online safety as a pressing issue, Mrs. Okolo said communities must prioritize discussions on how to protect children in the digital age.
“A child that is not taught will teach the community a painful lesson,” she said, emphasizing the importance of guidance from parents, teachers, and caregivers.
The child rights advocate cited examples of technology pioneers such as Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, who reportedly imposed limits on technology use by their own children despite their contributions to the digital revolution.
According to her, prolonged screen exposure can negatively affect children’s brain development by stimulating dopamine responses linked to addictive behavior.
She warned that excessive use of digital devices could result in poor concentration, reduced academic performance, sleep disturbances, social isolation, and withdrawal symptoms.
Mrs. Okolo also linked the increasing prevalence of attention-related disorders and declining attention spans among children to excessive screen time, noting that opportunities for meaningful face-to-face interaction have significantly decreased.
She expressed concern over the shortage of functional libraries and recreational facilities for children in Kogi State, arguing that the lack of alternatives leaves many young people with little choice but to spend more time on digital devices.
“When we tell children to put down their phones, we must also provide meaningful alternatives,” she said.
While acknowledging the importance of technology in modern life, Mrs. Okolo maintained that the solution lies not in banning digital devices but in helping children develop the discipline and skills required to use them responsibly.
She advocated raising “technology-smart” children who can benefit from digital tools without becoming dependent on them.
The former FIDA chairperson further urged government authorities to revive public libraries, improve educational infrastructure, and create safe spaces where children can read, learn, play, and interact with their peers.
She also encouraged parents to maintain open conversations with their children about online content and the strategies social media platforms use to keep users engaged.
Addressing the children at the event, Mrs. Okolo urged them to nurture their creativity and imagination rather than seek validation through social media, assuring them that they possess the ability to make responsible choices online.
She reaffirmed CENFARLD’s commitment to advancing child protection initiatives and promoting environments that support the healthy growth and development of children.
The Children’s Book Fair attracted parents, teachers, community leaders, and other stakeholders who explored practical ways to enhance online safety and strengthen reading culture among children in Kogi State.
