TikTok, a Chinese owned social media platform, has partnered with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Data Science Nigeria (DSN) to strengthen online safety and digital awareness in Nigeria.
This was made known by Data Science Nigeria (DSN) on X, formerly Twitter, revealing that the collaboration aligns seamlessly with NITDA’s mission to enhance digital literacy, improve technology infrastructure, and ensure inclusive access to digital tools and services.
According to Dr. Olubayo Adekanmbi, Founder and CEO of DSN, the responsibility of a safer digital world lies on every partner involved.
“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.”
Speaking on the partnership, The Director-General of NITDA said,
“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.”
Also, the partnership is part of TikTok’s #SaferTogether initiative, which aims to create a safer digital environment for users, especially young people.
Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, TikTok’s Government Relations and Public Policy Director for Africa, emphasized the platform’s dedication to user safety. He said,
“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.”
The partnership will focus on educating parents, teachers, and guardians on how to help young people safely navigate TikTok and the broader digital landscape. This will be achieved through workshops, social media outreach, and partnerships with key stakeholders.
The #SaferTogether initiative has already made significant strides in improving digital safety awareness across Nigeria. In its first phase, the program educated 537 teachers and 1,037 parents in major cities such as Abuja, Lagos, and Kano on TikTok’s safety features and promoting positive mental health in digital environments.