The Nigerian Senate is advancing a bill requiring major social media platforms to establish offices in Nigeria, aiming to improve regulation and accountability in the digital landscape. The bill, introduced by Senator Ned Nwoko, seeks to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act. While it promises economic benefits and global alignment, critics warn of potential operational hurdles for companies and independent bloggers.
The Nigerian Senate is progressing with a legislative bill that mandates major social media companies, including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok, to establish physical offices in Nigeria. This initiative, titled ‘A Bill for an Act to Amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023’, has successfully undergone its second reading during a plenary session. Originally introduced by Senator Ned Nwoko from Delta North in November 2024, this bill seeks to enhance regulation of Nigeria’s dynamic digital sector, ensuring accountability from international tech firms operating in the region.
Senator Nwoko underscored the necessity for Nigeria to align more closely with global data protection mandates while acknowledging existing deficiencies in the oversight of digital platforms. Given that Nigeria boasts a population exceeding 220 million and is the continent’s leader in social media utilization, he emphasized the urgency of robust regulation. A report from the Global Web Index highlights that Nigerians spend an average of three hours and 46 minutes on social media each day, positioning the nation second globally in online engagement.
The proposed legislation stipulates that social media platforms, alongside data controllers, processors, and bloggers, must establish verifiable physical offices within Nigeria. Proponents assert that such measures will boost user support, ensure adherence to local regulations, facilitate tax collection, and foster economic advancement through job creation and investment opportunities.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio clarified the bill’s intentions, stating it aims to enhance accountability and appropriate taxation rather than inhibit free expression. He indicated that “the bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security for further examination,” with public hearings anticipated within two months.
If enacted, this law could significantly reshape Nigeria’s digital landscape and potentially serve as a model for other African countries. Nevertheless, critics express concerns that it may impose substantial operational burdens on social media entities and independent bloggers, risking a decline in services or increased costs for users.
In summary, the Nigerian Senate is advancing a crucial bill to mandate social media giants to open local offices in Nigeria. This legislation aims to enhance regulatory compliance, accountability, and economic growth in the digital sector. While it has the potential to strengthen Nigeria’s standing in the global digital economy, concerns remain regarding possible operational challenges for tech companies and creators.
Original Source: broadcastmediaafrica.com
