Google has announced a $600,000 support package for initiatives aimed at protecting children and teenagers from online dangers in Nigeria.
The initiative combines funding for research into young people’s internet experiences with practical digital safety training for parents, teachers and other community members.
According to details announced on Wednesday, Google.org is providing $550,000 in funding and an additional $50,000 in advertising grants to the TechSocietal Development Foundation.
The project will involve a nationwide study of 2,000 adolescents across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to understand the digital risks they encounter.
It will also provide online safety education to 5,000 teachers and school administrators, while training 200 community champions who are expected to reach up to 10,000 parents and caregivers.
Google is also introducing its Meet LEO (Learn and Explore Online) programme in Nigeria. The initiative, being implemented with Tech Hive Advisory, will initially train 500 educators and youth leaders across four states, with the aim of extending the training to another 2,500 students and community members.
The announcement comes as concerns grow over cyberbullying, exposure to harmful online content, internet exploitation and the safety of children using digital platforms. The initiative is expected to equip more Nigerian families and educators with practical tools to help young people navigate the internet more safely.
