Senator Ned Nwoko asserts that social media platforms like TikTok and X could create 200,000 jobs for Nigerians by establishing local offices. He emphasizes that the Bill to Amend the Nigerian Data Protection Act, 2023, aims to ensure accountability and proper taxation for these companies, while also introducing regulations for bloggers. This initiative seeks to enhance job opportunities and economic benefits within Nigeria.
Ned Nwoko, a Senator from Delta North, has expressed that social media platforms, including TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), could create approximately 200,000 jobs for Nigerian youth if they are required to establish physical offices in Nigeria. He made this statement during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), advocating for a Bill to Amend the Nigerian Data Protection Act, 2023, currently under consideration by the National Assembly.
Nwoko emphasized that the proposed bill aims to hold big tech companies accountable while fostering Nigerian job opportunities. He lamented that many talented Nigerians are seeking employment, yet these companies often overlook local talent in favor of hiring abroad. “If they set up offices here, at least 200,000 Nigerian youths can get direct employment in customer service, tech, content moderation, and other areas,” he observed.
The senator clarified that the intent of the bill is not to hinder businesses but to prioritize the welfare of Nigerian citizens. He believes that by compelling social media companies to establish offices in Nigeria, the country can gain better control over its digital environment and ensure fair taxation. He remarked, “They make billions of dollars from our people, yet they do not pay the right taxes.”
Nwoko further argued that the bill would facilitate taxation repatriation, stating that all companies operating in Nigeria should register and comply with local tax laws, thus helping retain approximately $10 billion annually that Nigeria currently loses. He asserted, “If these companies want to operate in Nigeria, they must pay their fair share of taxes like every other business.
Additionally, the bill seeks to implement regulations for bloggers and digital content creators in Nigeria, requiring them to have verifiable addresses and belong to an established media union for accountability. Nwoko pointed out that if there are complaints against bloggers, they should be answerable to a professional body, just as other professions are.
Historically, Nigeria previously mandated X to establish a local office when the platform was banned in 2021, a condition that was not fulfilled until its acquisition by Elon Musk in 2022. Currently, Meta is the only major social media company with a physical presence in Nigeria, although it has recently reduced its office size in Lagos, impacting dozens of employees.
In summary, Senator Ned Nwoko advocates for legislation that would compel major social media platforms to establish physical offices in Nigeria, promising substantial job creation for the youth. He contends that such measures would enhance taxation and ensure accountability for digital companies. Additionally, regulating bloggers could standardize practices within the industry. This initiative reflects a growing desire for Nigeria to harness its digital economy for the benefit of its citizens.
Original Source: nairametrics.com
