NITDA lauds social media platforms over compliance with code of practice

Omeiza Bilal
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has lauded Google, Microsoft, and TikTok for their continued compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries and for the submission of the 2024 compliance report.
This was contained in a statement Wednesday signed by Director, Corporate Communications & Media Relations Department NITDA Mrs Hadiza Umar
According to her, the Code which was issued jointly by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and NITDA outlines clear guidelines for promoting online safety and managing harmful content.
She said the compliance reports provide valuable insights into the platforms’ efforts to address user safety concerns in line with the Code of Practice and the platforms’ community guidelines.
She added the highlight of the overall statistics across all platforms includes the following: “Seven hundred fifty-four thousand, six hundred twenty-nine (754,629) registered complaint.
“Fifty-eight million, nine hundred nine thousand, one hundred twelve (58,909,112) content takedown.
“Four hundred twenty thousand, four hundred thirty-nine (420,439) removed and reuploaded content following an appeal by users.
“Thirteen million, five hundred ninety-seven thousand, fifty-seven (13,597,057) closed and deactivated accounts.
“The submission of these reports marks a significant step towards fostering a safer and responsible digital environment for Nigerian users. It also demonstrates the platforms’ commitment to ensuring a secure and trustworthy online environment for all. “
She said achievement reflects the provisions of the Code of Practice, which mandates that large service platforms are registered in Nigeria and comply with relevant laws including the fulfillment of their tax obligation, while reinforcing the commitment to online safety for Nigerians.
“While NITDA acknowledges these commendable efforts, we emphasize that building a safer digital space requires sustained collaboration and engagement among all stakeholders.
“We remain committed to working with industry players, civil society, and regulatory partners to further strengthen user safety measures, enhance digital literacy, and promote trust and transparency in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem,” the statement reads.