The National Information Technology Development Agency reported that major tech firms like Google, X (formerly Twitter), Microsoft, and TikTok have collectively removed over 65 million pieces of content from their platforms in Nigeria.
This action followed user complaints regarding these contents.
The was disclosed in a statement by NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications & Media Relations, Mrs. Hadiza Umar on Tuesday.
The removal of over 65 million pieces of content by tech firms in Nigeria is part of the 2023 compliance report on the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms and Internet Intermediaries.
This code, developed by NITDA in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission and the National Broadcasting Commission, outlines regulatory requirements for managing online content.
The code aims to enhance online safety and prevent the spread of harmful material, demonstrating a coordinated effort to ensure digital platforms align with Nigeria’s regulatory framework.
The NITDA report reveals that a total of 65,853,581 pieces of content were removed across Google, X, Microsoft, and TikTok after being flagged by users.
Additionally, 4,125,283 complaints were submitted by Nigerian users about harmful content. This led to the deactivation of over 12 million user accounts and the removal of offending material, reflecting the ongoing efforts to enforce online safety and regulatory compliance in Nigeria.
A further 379,433 pieces of content were re-uploaded following successful user appeals, indicating that the platforms are responsive to concerns and provide avenues for content review.
NITDA praised the platforms for their adherence to the Code of Practice, emphasizing that their efforts contribute to creating a safer and more accountable online environment for Nigerians.
It stated, “The National Information Technology Development Agency has commended Google, X, Microsoft, and TikTok for their compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries. The Code which was issued jointly by the Nigerian Communications Commission, National Broadcasting Commission, and NITDA outlines clear guidelines for promoting online safety and managing harmful content.
“The 2023 compliance report provides valuable insight into the platform’s efforts to address user safety concerns in line with the Code of Practice and the platforms’ community guidelines. The highlight of the overall statistics across all the platforms includes the following: 4,125,283 registered complaints; and 65,853,581 content takedowns.
“379,433 removed and re-uploaded content following an appeal by users; 12,099,633 closed and deactivated accounts.”
The statement further highlighted that foreign digital companies, including social media platforms, paid over N2.55 trillion (approximately $1.5 billion) in taxes during the first half of 2024, according to data from the Federal Inland Revenue Service and the National Bureau of Statistics.
This reflects the growing economic significance of the digital sector.
NITDA meanwhile emphasized the need for ongoing collaboration between tech companies and regulators to address emerging challenges, particularly in content moderation, user safety, and transparency.
