Avocats Sans Frontières (ASF) France, with support from the European Union (EU) and in partnership with the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), has called for stronger measures to combat cyberbullying and protect digital rights in Nigeria.
This message was emphasized during the grand finale of the National Inter-School Digital Rights Competition, held last Tuesday in Abuja as part of the E-RIGHTS Protect initiative. After a rigorous contest, four schools from different states qualified for the final round: Lagos, FCT, Imo, and Kano. Sonmori Senior Comprehensive High School in Ifako-Ijaiye, Lagos, emerged as the overall winner, taking home a cash prize of one million naira to support its digital literacy efforts.
ASF France Nigeria Country Director, Angela Uwandu Uzoma, highlighted that the competition was about more than just showcasing talent.
“It is a celebration of courage, consciousness, and commitment. The E-RIGHTS project aims to promote digital rights for all, including children, ensuring they are part of the conversation and actively discouraging cyberbullying,” she said.
Uzoma noted that the Cybercrimes Act, recently amended in 2024, includes crucial updates to Section 24 aimed at addressing these issues, but she stressed that further action is needed to create safe and inclusive digital spaces.
“This Act should protect citizens and empower them to express themselves freely, as guaranteed by the Constitution—including children,” she added.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Wynyfred Achu-Egbuson, EU Program Manager for CSOs, Human Rights and Youth, underscored the importance of empowering young people to uphold not only their digital rights but also those of others.
“The conversation around digital rights is dynamic, and the issues of legislation and regulation are continually evolving, both in Nigeria and globally,” she said.
The event concluded with a call for more proactive policies and education to tackle cyberbullying and ensure inclusive digital participation for all.
