Tech giants Google, Microsoft, and TikTok have deactivated a total of 13,597,057 Nigerian accounts over offensive content and violations of the country’s online code of conduct, according to the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, Hajiya Hadiza Umar, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, noting that the action was detailed in the Code of Practice 2024 Compliance Report. The report, jointly issued by NITDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), highlighted the platforms’ efforts to curb harmful online content.
According to the report, 58,909,112 offensive posts were removed, while 754,629 registered complaints were processed. Out of these, 420,439 contents were taken down and later reinstated following successful appeals by users.
Hajiya Umar commended the platforms’ compliance, describing it as a “significant step towards fostering a safer and responsible digital environment for Nigerian users.” She added that the move aligns with the provisions of the Code of Practice, which requires major service platforms to be registered in Nigeria, comply with local laws, fulfil tax obligations, and prioritize online safety.
While applauding the progress, NITDA stressed that ensuring a secure digital ecosystem would require sustained collaboration among industry players, regulators, and civil society, alongside efforts to boost digital literacy and transparency.
