NGO advises parents to monitor childrens’ digital lives

The Advocacy for Positive Behavioural Patterns Initiative, a Non-Government Organisation (NGO), has urged parents to actively engage in their children’s
digital lives and understand the risks associated with unethical online behaviours.

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The Director, Campaign Team of the initiative, Mr Bamidele Mann, made the call in a statement in Abuja on Wednesday, saying it was a call to action for parents.

Mann stated that in an era dominated by technology, the pervasive influence of the internet had given rise to concerning trends among youths.

He added that “the surge in involvement of teens and young adults in cyber fraud, specifically activities like Yahoo Yahoo and Yahoo Plus, is alarming. As a community, we cannot afford to turn a blind eye to these destructive behavioural patterns. The initiative is taking a bold stance to raise parents’ consciousness to their responsibilities in guiding and safeguarding their children. It is a clarion call for parents to actively engage in their children’s digital lives, understand the risks associated with unethical online behaviours, and work toward fostering a culture of responsibility and integrity.”

According to him, the initiative is stepping forward to address a pressing concern: the rise of unethical online activities among teens and young adults.

Mann said that the increasing involvement of youths into cyber fraud is a threat to the moral fabric of the society.

He added that “our initiative emphasises the pivotal role parents play in shaping the character and values of children. It calls upon parents to recognise the potential dangers lurking in the digital realm and actively participate in children’s online lives. The call to action is clear: parents must rise to the occasion, take responsibility, and guide their children away from engaging in harmful and illegal activities. We cannot afford to be passive observers in the face of these destructive behavioural patterns.”

Mann said that as parents, it was their duty to instill values that promote integrity, responsibility, and ethical conduct in our children, both online and offline.

According to him, the initiative encourages open communication between parents and their children, fostering an environment where trust and understanding prevail.

He said that by being proactive in monitoring online activities, parents can identify warning signs and intervene before their children fall prey to the allure of cyber fraud.

He explained that the initiative would collectively navigate the challenges presented by the digital age and called for unity among parents.

“Together, we can create a safer online environment for our children, ensuring that they grow into responsible and morally conscious individuals,” he said.

NAN/Wumi