The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has commended tech giants Google, Microsoft, and TikTok for what it described as their “sustained commitment to keeping Nigerian users safe online.”
By Chimezie Godfrey
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has commended tech giants Google, Microsoft, and TikTok for what it described as their “sustained commitment to keeping Nigerian users safe online.”
This follows the submission of the 2024 Compliance Report on the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries, jointly issued by NITDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
According to a statement by NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hadiza Umar, the compliance reports shed light on how the platforms handled harmful content and protected users in line with the Code and their own community guidelines.
”The statistics are staggering. In 2024 alone, the three platforms recorded 754,629 user complaints, removed 58.9 million harmful posts, and shut down more than 13.5 million accounts linked to abuse, scams, and other violations. Interestingly, about 420,439 contents were re-uploaded after users successfully appealed their removal,” she stated.
Mrs. Umar noted that the reports prove that progress is being made in making the internet safer for Nigerians.
“The submission of these reports marks a significant step towards fostering a safer and responsible digital environment for Nigerian users. It also demonstrates the platforms’ commitment to ensuring a secure and trustworthy online environment for all,” she noted.
Mrs. Umar added that compliance with the Code of Practice goes beyond removing harmful content. “The Code mandates that large service platforms must register in Nigeria, comply with our laws, including tax obligations, while reinforcing their commitment to online safety for Nigerians,” she explained.
But while applauding the platforms, NITDA stressed that the job is far from over. The agency called for sustained collaboration with civil society, regulators, and the industry to promote digital literacy, transparency, and stronger user protection.
“We emphasize that building a safer digital space requires sustained collaboration and engagement among all stakeholders.
“We remain committed to working with industry players, civil society, and regulatory partners to further strengthen user safety measures, enhance digital literacy, and promote trust in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem,”Mrs. Umar said.