A prominent counsellor and addiction specialist, Ugwuowo Ndubisi, has urged the Akwa Ibom State government and parents across the region to adopt a more proactive stance in regulating technology use among children.
Speaking on the growing negative impacts of digital overexposure, Ndubisi emphasized that safeguarding young minds from screen addiction requires urgent, collaborative oversight from both families and policymakers.
During an interview on XL106.9FM’s News Hour, Ndubisi highlighted the escalating dependence of children and teenagers on digital devices and interactive gaming.
The addiction specialist stressed that parents must look beyond simply providing gadgets and transition into active guides who monitor, structure, and supervise how youth interact with technology in their daily lives.
Beyond screen management, the addiction specialist addressed the broader scope of emotional and mental well-being, underscoring the vital contributions of professional psychologists.
He noted that psychological support should not be treated merely as an emergency response during a crisis, but rather embraced as a normal, continuous part of personal development for both children and adults.
Ndubisi also encouraged families to dismantle the persistent social stigma associated with seeking mental health assistance.
He explained that normalising therapy and securing early psychological intervention can effectively prevent more severe behavioural and emotional challenges later in life.
To sustain these efforts on a broader scale, Ndubisi called on Akwa Ibom State government agencies and technology companies to forge strategic partnerships.
He advocated for the creation of robust regulatory policies and practical digital safety measures designed to foster responsible technology use throughout the younger population.
