The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has commended Google, X, Microsoft, and TikTok for their compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries.
According to a press release signed by the Director, of Corporate Communications & Media Relations, NITDA, Mrs. Hadiza Umar, the Code, which was issued jointly by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and NITDA, outlines clear guidelines for promoting online safety and managing harmful content.
The platform’s efforts to address user safety concerns in accordance with the Code of Practice and the platform’s community rules are elucidated in the 2023 compliance report.
The highlight of the overall statistics across all the platforms includes the following:
1. Four million, one hundred and twenty-five thousand, two hundred and eighty-three (4,125,283) registered complaints.
2. Sixty-five million, eight hundred and fifty-three thousand, five hundred and eighty-one (65,853,581) content takedown.
3. Three hundred and seventy-nine thousand, four hundred and thirty-three (379,433) removed and re-uploaded content following an appeal by users.
4. Twelve million, ninety-nine thousand, six hundred and thirty-three (12,099,633) closed and deactivated accounts.
NITDA recognises the beneficial effects of these platforms’ initiatives in creating a more secure and responsible online environment for both Nigerians and non-Nigerians in Nigeria.
Furthermore, data from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveal that foreign digital companies, including interactive computer service platforms and internet intermediaries (such as social media platforms) operating in Nigeria, contributed over N2.55 trillion (approximately $1.5 billion) in taxes in H1 2024. This significant increase in revenue underscores the role of robust regulatory frameworks in shaping compliance and driving revenue growth in the digital economy.
NITDA highlights the necessity of ongoing cooperation and innovation to tackle new issues and guarantee a safer and more responsible digital environment, even as it praises the achieved accomplishments. The organisation is still dedicated to collaborating with interested parties to improve and fortify digital literacy, user safety protocols, transparency, and trust.
