In a sweeping move to enhance online safety and curb harmful content, tech giants Google, Microsoft, and TikTok have collectively deactivated approximately 13.5 million user accounts in Nigeria throughout 2024. This unprecedented action is part of their compliance with the Nigerian government’s Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms, aimed at fostering a safer digital environment across the country.
The coordinated effort saw these platforms remove nearly 59 million harmful pieces of content, ranging from offensive posts to violations of platform guidelines and local regulations. The deactivation of over 13.5 million accounts reflects a stringent approach to combating misinformation, hate speech, and other forms of damaging online activity.
This crackdown was catalyzed by directives from Nigerian regulatory authorities—including the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC)—who jointly issued the 2024 Code of Practice. The framework mandates digital service providers to operate within the country’s legal parameters, register formally, and uphold ethical standards, including financial obligations such as taxation.
Hajiya Hadiza Umar, Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations at NITDA, praised the platforms for maintaining compliance and actively protecting users from harmful content. She highlighted that over 750,000 complaints regarding online content were registered during the period, with nearly 420,000 pieces of removed content re-uploaded following successful appeals by users.
The Nigerian government views these efforts as a foundational step toward a trustworthy, secure digital space conducive to free and responsible expression. However, NITDA emphasizes that sustainable online safety requires continued cooperation among technology companies, government agencies, civil society, and users themselves.
As Nigeria’s digital ecosystem grows rapidly, this assertive enforcement sets a precedent for accountability on global and local platforms. The move not only protects citizens from malicious content but also bolsters confidence in digital services amid expanding internet penetration in the country.
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