FG deactivates 13.6m social media accounts
The Federal Government has deactivated no fewer than 13.6 million social media accounts across various platforms, including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X, over offensive content and violations of Nigeria’s Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms.
This disclosure was contained in the 2024 Compliance Report jointly submitted by major tech companies such as Google, Microsoft, and TikTok.
The Code of Practice, developed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), provides guidelines for online safety and accountability.
Confirming the figures in a statement issued on Wednesday, NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, Hajiya Hadiza Umar, revealed that the platforms recorded 754,629 formal complaints during the period under review.
Umar commended the tech giants for their compliance, stressing that their efforts reflect a strong commitment to protecting Nigerian users.
According to her, “The compliance reports highlight how platforms are tackling user safety concerns in line with the Code of Practice and their respective community guidelines. The submission of these reports is a major step towards building a safer and more responsible digital environment in Nigeria.”
She added that the Code requires all large service platforms operating in Nigeria to register, comply with existing laws, and meet their tax obligations while prioritising online safety.
While applauding the progress made, NITDA emphasized the need for continuous collaboration among government, industry players, and civil society to strengthen user protections, promote digital literacy, and enhance trust and transparency in the nation’s digital ecosystem.
