The Nigerian Senate is advancing a bill requiring social media giants to set up local offices in Nigeria, introduced by Senator Ned Nwoko. This legislation aims to regulate digital platforms and promote accountability among international tech companies. It seeks to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act and has stirred debates about its implications for free speech and operational burdens on social media services.
The Nigerian Senate is advancing a bill requiring major social media platforms, including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok, to establish physical offices in Nigeria. Titled the ‘A Bill for an Act to Amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023’, the legislation aims to regulate the fast-evolving digital landscape of Nigeria and enhance accountability among international tech companies. Initially introduced by Senator Ned Nwoko in November 2024, this bill was recently passed in a plenary session after its second reading and intends to amend the existing Nigeria Data Protection Act signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023.
Senator Nwoko emphasized aligning Nigeria with global data protection standards, pointing out the current oversight gaps in regulating digital platforms. He highlighted Nigeria’s status as Africa’s most populous nation, with over 220 million residents, combined with the high engagement on social media platforms, where citizens are reported to spend an average of three hours and 46 minutes daily. Despite the presence of these platforms in Nigeria, they lack physical representations in the country, which is unusual compared to their operations in other nations.
The proposed bill mandates that these social media platforms, along with data controllers, processors, and bloggers, must set up verifiable physical offices within Nigeria. Proponents of this legislation argue that it will enhance user support, ensure compliance with local regulations, facilitate tax collection, and foster job creation and investment opportunities in the country.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio reassured that the intention of the bill is not to restrict free speech but to promote accountability and proper taxation. He mentioned, “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.”
Should the legislation be enacted, it could significantly transform Nigeria’s digital landscape and serve as a model for other African nations. However, critics raise concerns that it may impose operational burdens on social media companies and independent bloggers, potentially leading to diminished services or increased user costs.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s Senate is pursuing a legislative initiative that compels major social media platforms to establish local offices, promoting accountability and compliance with local standards. While this bill aims to elevate Nigeria’s standing in the global digital framework, it faces criticism regarding potential operational challenges for tech companies and independent bloggers. The legislative process is ongoing, with public hearings anticipated in the coming months.
Original Source: broadcastmediaafrica.com
