Internet Addiction Threatens Academic Success, Mental Wellbeing of Young Nigerians

Oluchi Chibuzor

A new study revealed by Dr. Stephen Awogbami, a College lecturer, has raised fresh concerns over the growing risk of internet addiction and its silent but powerful impact on students’ academic performance and mental health.

While internet use has become an essential part of education and social life, there is need for caution and urgent public health action to curb the negative consequences of excessive screen time.

The study carried out at the College of Health Sciences and Technology Ijero-Ekiti revealed that 45 percent of students fell within the moderate to excessive use category. This pattern of excessive browsing, social media use, and uncontrolled streaming is increasingly linked to poorer grades, loss of sleep, anxiety, and social withdrawal.

Health experts warn that internet overuse can have ripple effects far beyond poor test scores. According to Dr. Stephen Awogbami, an Environmental and Public Health Specialist, “When young people are not guided on healthy internet habits, it opens the door to new mental health burdens. Sleep loss, poor concentration, and social isolation are all red flags that can escalate if left unchecked.”

Globally, internet addiction is now being recognized by psychologists and psychiatrists as an emerging behavioral health disorder. Locally, however, the topic remains under-discussed in schools and families.

In semi-urban settings where digital literacy is rising rapidly but regulation is weak, students often rely on mobile phones and cyber cafes for assignments, social interaction, and entertainment. The lack of parental supervision and poor awareness of screen-time guidelines can make young people more vulnerable.

Educational stakeholders believe that schools should take the lead by including digital wellness education in their curricula.

“We need practical school-based interventions. Counselors and teachers must help students manage their screen time and balance their online activities with sleep, study, and in-person socialization,’ he said.

The study also highlights the role of families in tackling this issue. Parents and guardians are urged to discuss healthy online habits, set clear boundaries for internet use at home, and watch out for early signs of compulsive behaviour.

Meanwhile, policy experts are calling for broader national awareness campaigns, especially at the community level.

On his part, Dr. Adebayo Ojo, the public health specialist and educational administrator argued that integrating digital addiction education into health promotion programs could help prevent risky behaviors from escalating into serious mental health challenges.

As Nigeria embraces a more connected digital future, the need to balance technology use with mental wellbeing has never been greater. This study reminds us that while the internet remains an incredible tool for education and development, its overuse can quietly derail students’ potential.

According to the researchers, “It is time to pay attention to how, when, and why young people stay online. Caution today could protect our youth’s academic success and psychological health tomorrow.”