- King Charles Hosts Nigerian Diaspora Ahead of Tinubu’s UK Visit
- King Charles III emphasised the need to protect children from excessive exposure to social media
- Observers say the move reflects a broader global shift toward treating online safety for children as a major public policy issue
Ahead of the expected state visit of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the United Kingdom, King Charles III hosted members of the Nigerian diaspora at St James’s Palace in London.
Eko Hot Blog reports on the reception, held earlier in the week, brought together Nigerian professionals, business leaders, creatives and public figures based in the UK whose work continues to strengthen ties between Nigeria and Britain.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Ogun Begins Crackdown on Illegal Parks at Sango Border Over Rising Accidents
- Police Nab 30-Year-Old ‘Super M’ During Stop-and-Search in Lagos
- LASG Launches Investigation Into Cosmetic Surgery Death
The event also highlighted a growing global concern about protecting children in the digital age, particularly the influence of social media on young learners.
Among the guests was the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Rupetta Group, Katmaan Senlong, whose work across education, technology and social impact has gained recognition in both Nigeria and the UK.
An ICT lawyer and education advocate, Senlong has promoted a model of child development centred on discipline, creativity, confidence and structured learning.
During a brief interaction with Senlong, King Charles III emphasised the need to protect children from excessive exposure to social media, particularly during their early education years.
The remarks echoed Senlong’s advocacy for learning environments that help children grow without the pressures and distractions of the digital world.
Nigeria is currently reviewing its approach to child online safety, with ongoing national consultations focusing on issues such as age limits for social media access, stronger age verification systems and greater accountability for digital platforms.
Observers say the move reflects a broader global shift toward treating online safety for children as a major public policy issue.
Countries such as Australia, France, Norway and Denmark have already introduced or considered stricter measures regulating children’s use of digital platforms.
Senlong noted that protecting children online is not just a policy debate but also central to the philosophy behind Rupetta Academy and the broader Rupetta Group.
She said the organisation focuses on offering children constructive alternatives such as chess, science learning, structured education, physical activities and creative development.
The reception at St James’s Palace also celebrated Nigerian culture, with guests enjoying traditional Nigerian cuisine and cultural performances that showcased the country’s diversity and global cultural influence.
As anticipation builds ahead of President Tinubu’s visit to the UK, the gathering provided an early signal of continued cooperation and mutual respect between both nations, while highlighting the contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora to conversations on education, technology and social development.
