The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) announced on Wednesday that major tech firms, including Google, Microsoft, and TikTok, deactivated more than 13.5 million accounts in 2024 to comply with Nigeria’s Code of Practice for online safety.
The update followed the submission of annual compliance reports under the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms, a framework introduced by NITDA alongside the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). The Code requires global platforms to register in Nigeria, comply with local laws, pay taxes, and implement measures to protect users from harmful content.
According to NITDA, Nigerian users filed over 754,000 complaints in 2024, leading to the removal of 58.9 million pieces of harmful content. While 420,439 items were restored after appeals, 13.5 million accounts were permanently shut down for violations.
NITDA’s spokesperson, Hadiza Umar, said the reports highlight industry commitment to creating a safer digital ecosystem. She stressed that transparency and collaboration among platforms, regulators, and civil society remain crucial in combating misinformation, cyberbullying, and online fraud.
Authorities noted that while digital platforms drive communication and commerce, stronger safeguards are needed to balance innovation with user protection.
