Nigeria is moving forward with plans to regulate major internet companies, including Google, Facebook, TikTok, and others, according to a draft proposal from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). This new initiative aims to extend the rules set for platforms like Twitter to a broader range of digital services operating in the country.
The draft document, titled “Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries,” outlines new guidelines for internet companies operating in Nigeria. These rules are designed to address what NITDA sees as a need to protect citizens’ rights while ensuring that digital platforms comply with local regulations.
The draft includes requirements such as:
Registering with Nigeria’s Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to establish a legal presence in the country.
Appointing a country representative who will act as a liaison between the platform and Nigerian authorities.
Meeting tax obligations in accordance with Nigerian law.
Creating mechanisms to avoid publishing harmful content, such as fake news and coordinated disinformation.
Providing authorities with information on harmful accounts and disinformation networks.
These conditions are part of Nigeria’s broader goal to regulate online spaces where harmful content could impact social interactions, economic decisions, and public safety. NITDA’s spokesperson emphasized that the regulations aim to better align the activities of these platforms with the needs of Nigerian society, balancing influence and responsibility.
While the draft proposal is open to public review and comments, some observers believe this is only the latest in a series of efforts by the Nigerian government to impose greater control over digital platforms. A few months ago, Nigeria lifted its suspension of Twitter after a lengthy standoff. However, conditions attached to the platform’s reinstatement — including setting up a legal entity and paying taxes locally — have not been met, leading some to speculate that the government might escalate its actions.
This draft builds upon a similar push by Nigerian authorities in recent years to regulate social media and other online services. In the past, discussions have included proposals to require social media platforms like WhatsApp, Zoom, and YouTube to obtain licenses from Nigeria’s regulatory bodies, a process that raised concerns over freedom of expression.
The Nigerian government’s ongoing attempts to regulate internet companies have raised concerns about potential overreach, especially given the backlash over the Twitter ban. Critics worry that further regulatory moves could stifle free speech or lead to suspensions of services if companies fail to comply.
Despite the challenges, the Nigerian government seems determined to create a regulatory framework that aligns digital platforms with the country’s laws and values. As the draft continues to evolve, its impact on the global tech industry and Nigerian internet users remains to be seen.
