The Nigerian Senate is moving forward with a bill that mandates social media giants to set up physical offices in Nigeria, aiming to enhance regulation and accountability in the digital landscape. Introduced by Senator Ned Nwoko, the bill addresses oversight of platforms in Nigeria, which has high social media usage. While proponents advocate for user support and economic growth, critics warn of operational challenges for these companies.
The Nigerian Senate is advancing a bill that compels major social media platforms, including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok, to establish physical offices within Nigeria. This legislation, titled ‘A Bill for an Act to Amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023,’ successfully passed its second reading in a plenary session. Introduced by Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North) in November 2024, the bill seeks to enhance regulation of Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital landscape and ensure accountability from international technology companies operating in the country.
Senator Nwoko highlighted the necessity for Nigeria to align with global data protection standards and rectify existing oversight gaps regarding digital platforms. With Nigeria being Africa’s most populous nation—home to over 220 million people—and boasting the highest social media engagement on the continent, these regulations are deemed crucial. According to the Global Web Index, Nigerians average approximately three hours and 46 minutes on social media daily, positioning the country second worldwide in online engagement.
The proposed law mandates that social media platforms, data controllers, processors, and bloggers must establish verifiable physical offices in Nigeria. Proponents of this legislation argue that it would improve user support, ensure compliance with local regulations, facilitate tax collection, and stimulate economic growth through job creation and investment opportunities.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized that the intent of the bill is not to restrict free speech but to foster accountability and proper taxation. “The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security for further examination. The committee is expected to conduct public hearings and provide feedback within two months,” he noted.
Should this legislation be enacted, it could significantly alter Nigeria’s digital environment and potentially serve as a model for other African nations. Nevertheless, critics express concerns regarding potential operational challenges for social media companies and independent bloggers, which could result in diminished services or increased costs for users.
In summary, the Nigerian Senate is progressing a bill that would require major social media platforms to establish local offices in Nigeria. Advocates believe this move would improve compliance and economic growth, while critics caution against potential operational challenges. The bill’s passage could redefine Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and influence similar legislation across Africa.
Original Source: broadcastmediaafrica.com
