Technology

Nigerian Government Removes Nearly 59 Million Online Posts, Shuts Down 13.5 Million Accounts.

The Nigerian government has taken down nearly 59 million pieces of harmful online content and shut down more than 13.5 million social media accounts, such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X, formerly known as Twitter, for violating the country's internet regulations.

This move was contained in a Code of Practice 2024 Compliance Report submitted to the government by promoters of interactive computer service platforms such as Google, Microsoft and TikTok, among others.

Hadiza Umar, NITDA's director of corporate communications and media relations, said in a statement on Wednesday that 58,909,112 offensive contents were taken down from various platforms.

Umar commended Google, Microsoft, and TikTok for complying with the code of practice for interactive computer service platforms.

She said 754,629 complaints were registered across the platforms, adding 420,439 pieces of content were taken down and re-uploaded following user appeals.

"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 said.

"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.

"This 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 fulfilment of their tax obligation, while reinforcing the commitment to online safety for Nigerians.

"While NITDA acknowledges these commendable efforts, we emphasise 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 2024 Code of Practice is part of the government's broader push to curb misinformation, harmful content, and online abuse across digital platforms operating within the country