NITDA applauds Tech Giants for adhering to Code of Practice in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem

*The National Information Technology Development Agency commends Google, X, Microsoft and TikTok on their  compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries jointly issued the Agency, the Nigerian Communications Commission and National Broadcasting Commission

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has commended Google, X, Microsoft and TikTok for the technology giants’ compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries.

ConsumerConnect reports the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and NITDA jointly issued  the Code of Practice, which outlines clear guidelines for promoting online safety and managing harmful content.

Mrs. Hadiza Umar, fnipr, f.apra,

Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations at NITDA, Tuesday, December 3, 2024, also stated the 2023 compliance report provides valuable insight into efforts of the platforms at addressing user safety concerns in line with the Code of Practice and the digital platforms’ community guidelines.

According to NITDA, 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.

The Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations said NITDA acknowledged the positive impact of these tech giants’ efforts at fostering a safer and responsible digital environment for Nigerians and non-nationals in the country.

NITDA seeks stakeholders’ collaboration, innovation for safer digital ecosystem

The statement further noted that data from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed the 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.

NITDA stated: “This significant increase in revenue underscores the role of robust regulatory frameworks in shaping compliance and driving revenue growth in the digital economy.”

Commending the progress made, NITDA stressed the need for continued collaboration and innovation to address emerging challenges and ensure a safer and more responsible digital space.

“The agency remains committed to working with stakeholders to strengthen and enhance user safety measures, digital literacy, trust and transparency,” Mrs. Umar said in the statement.