Nigerian Afrobeats star Mr Eazi has sparked widespread discussion online after revealing his strict rules on smartphone use for children, particularly his decision to delay giving his child an iPhone for at least one year after its introduction. The musician, known for his thoughtful approach to parenting, emphasized his concerns about the dangers of unrestricted internet access and the overwhelming influence of social media on young minds. He stated that while limited smartphone use may be permitted for school-related purposes, he will not allow full access to devices like iPhones until his child is older and more mature.
In a viral social media post, Mr Eazi shared his parenting philosophy, saying, “I won’t let my child use an iPhone for at least a year. They can use it in school if needed, but I’m really scared of social media and Google because they can search for anything.” His comments reflect growing concerns among parents across Nigeria and beyond about the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health, behavior, and development. The artist’s stance positions him as a proactive parent who prioritizes safety and emotional well-being over early technological exposure.
Mr Eazi’s approach underscores a broader trend of digital minimalism in parenting, where technology is not rejected outright but introduced gradually and with clear boundaries. Rather than banning smartphones entirely, he advocates for controlled access, allowing children to use devices only when necessary for academic purposes. This method aims to build digital literacy and self-regulation from an early age, reducing the risk of addiction, exposure to harmful content, and online predators.
The revelation has drawn mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media. Many praised Mr Eazi for his foresight and commitment to protecting his child’s mental health in a digital age. Some users echoed his sentiments, with one commenting, “Social media is an actual pandemic. Imagine paying millions for your child’s school fees and he’s steady binging olodo uprising contents.” Others, however, questioned the feasibility of such strict rules in a world where smartphones are essential tools for education and communication. One user noted, “Na after secondary for this side,” highlighting the cultural expectation for children to have phones by adolescence.
Another parent shared a similar approach, stating, “My child will only fully own a phone of their own, when she’s 16 and that’s if she’s not living in the same house with me.” These responses show that Mr Eazi’s views resonate with a segment of parents who are rethinking how and when to introduce technology to their children.
As digital platforms continue to evolve and become more embedded in daily life, Mr Eazi’s stance may inspire more Nigerian parents to adopt thoughtful, structured approaches to technology use in the home. His decision reflects a growing awareness of the need to balance modern conveniences with the long-term well-being of the next generation.
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