Scaling Efforts for a Safer Digital Nigeria: DSN, TikTok, and NITDA Collaborate on Online Safety Initiative
Data Science Nigeria (DSN), TikTok, and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) are advancing their efforts to promote a safer digital environment through the Online Safety and Digital Awareness Workshop. This initiative, part of the broader #SaferTogether campaign launched in 2022, aims to empower Nigerians with the knowledge and tools to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.
The campaign’s first phase reached significant milestones, educating over 537 teachers and 1,037 parents across Abuja, Lagos, and Kano. Participants were trained on TikTok’s safety features and strategies to foster positive mental health in digital spaces. Phase 2 builds on this success, extending the initiative to new audiences in Lagos and Abuja, with NITDA joining as a strategic partner.
This collaboration aligns seamlessly with NITDA’s mission to enhance digital literacy, improve technology infrastructure, and ensure inclusive access to digital tools and services. By partnering with DSN and TikTok, NITDA reinforces its commitment to strengthening cybersecurity and fostering trust in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, TikTok’s Government Relations and Public Policy Director for Africa, emphasized the platform’s dedication to user safety:
“Policy and safety innovation alone isn’t enough to create a safe digital space. Education about these policies and tools plays an equally vital role. Through local partnerships, we aim to scale the necessary education to support these efforts, ensuring users have the knowledge to take control of their online experiences.”
Phase 2 of the #SaferTogether campaign focused on critical topics, including Combating misinformation and fake news, addressing cyberbullying and sexting, promoting digital citizenship and data protection, and Preventing child sexual violence.
The Director-General of NITDA stated:
“Our participation in Phase 2 reflects our unwavering commitment to enhancing digital literacy and ensuring that all Nigerians can access technology safely and inclusively. Together, we aim to create a secure digital space for future generations.”
Dr. Olubayo Adekanmbi, Founder and CEO of DSN, also expressed enthusiasm:
“The digital world is now central to learning, engagement, and socializing. We share the responsibility to make this space safer. With the #SaferTogether campaign, we are equipping parents, teachers, and guardians with essential insights into digital wellness.”
The workshops target diverse audiences, including parents, teachers, and guardians, delivering practical tools and actionable insights to about 1000 participants. The initiative seeks to ensure a safer and more inclusive online experience for all Nigerians by fostering lasting behavioural changes.
Together, DSN, TikTok, and NITDA are redefining digital safety education, empowering individuals and communities to thrive in a secure digital environment.
