In a groundbreaking move to enhance online safety and digital awareness, TikTok has teamed up with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Data Science Nigeria (DSN) to launch the second phase of the #SaferTogether initiative.
The expanded campaign, which kicks off in Lagos and Abuja, reflects a shared commitment to fostering a secure and inclusive digital space for Nigerians.
The #SaferTogether initiative, first launched in 2022, has already achieved remarkable success in educating communities about digital safety.
Phase 1 focused on training 537 teachers and 1,037 parents across key cities like Abuja, Lagos, and Kano on TikTok’s safety tools and mental health support features.
Building on this foundation, Phase 2 introduces NITDA as a strategic partner to deepen the campaign’s impact.
This collaboration aligns with NITDA’s mission to advance digital literacy, strengthen technology infrastructure, and ensure equitable access to digital tools. Together, TikTok, NITDA, and DSN aim to make Nigerian cyberspace safer while bolstering cybersecurity and trust in digital practices.
Phase 2 will extend its reach to more regions, including Edo and Kaduna, addressing critical issues such as misinformation, cyberbullying, sexting, fake news, child sexual violence, and data protection.
The initiative will engage a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, community leaders, parents, and educators, in workshops designed to build a digitally resilient society.
Speaking on TikTok’s role in the partnership, Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, Government Relations and Public Policy Director for Africa, reaffirmed the platform’s dedication to user safety.
“Empowering parents, teachers, and guardians with digital literacy skills is not just about protecting users—it’s about enabling an informed community to shape a safer digital environment for everyone,” he said.
He added that through local partnerships like this, TikTok is “creating a resilient and knowledgeable online community” beyond the social media platform.
DSN, a leading player in digital education, will spearhead the development of content and training materials for Phase 2.
Guided by TikTok’s Trust and Safety team, these resources will emphasize the platform’s safety tools and features.
Dr. Olubayo Adekanmbi, CEO of DSN, highlighted the importance of the initiative.
“The digital world is now integral to learning, engagement, and social interaction,” Adekanmbi said.
“We share a responsibility to make this space safer, and the Safer Together campaign allows us to equip parents, teachers, and guardians with crucial insights on digital wellness.”
TikTok’s Safety Centre and Guardian’s Guide continue to provide resources for families, offering updated best practices for navigating digital spaces securely.
With this partnership, TikTok, NITDA, and DSN are setting a benchmark for collaborative efforts to tackle online safety challenges, paving the way for a digitally empowered and secure Nigeria.
