The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has published its 2024 Code of Practice Compliance Report, revealing the closure of more than 13 million social media accounts across major platforms.
According to the agency, the crackdown targeted accounts and content that violated Nigeria’s Code of Practice for Online Platforms, particularly in relation to offensive or harmful material. While the action was presented as a step toward safer digital spaces, it has also sparked debate among internet users, creators, and digital rights advocates about freedom of expression and the risk of censorship.
The compliance framework was developed jointly by NITDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). It requires large tech platforms to register locally, obey Nigerian laws, pay applicable taxes, and enforce measures that protect users from harmful content.
In its report, NITDA disclosed that platforms including Google, Microsoft, and TikTok deactivated 13,597,057 accounts for violations. Additionally, 420,439 pieces of content were initially removed but later restored after successful appeals from creators. More than 58 million posts were permanently taken down for breaching the code.
Hadiza Umar, NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, described the report as a “significant step toward building a safer and more responsible digital environment.” She praised the cooperation of tech companies, noting that the figures highlight their commitment to user safety and global community standards.
The large-scale cleanup has generated mixed reactions. Some Nigerians welcome the move as a way to curb cyberbullying, hate speech, and misinformation. Others, especially content creators, fear it could threaten their livelihoods and stifle creativity.
Social media users and digital rights advocates have urged NITDA to ensure greater transparency, fair moderation processes, and stronger dialogue with creators. They emphasize that striking a balance between regulation, innovation, and freedom of expression is crucial for Nigeria’s digital future.
For creators like comedians, vloggers, and influencers, the account suspensions have already had financial impacts, with lost brand deals, reduced visibility, and uncertainty about future regulations. Many are calling on lawmakers to enact a comprehensive digital governance law that protects both users and creators while ensuring accountability from platforms.
Analysts note that Nigeria’s approach reflects a global trend toward digital sovereignty, similar to policies in India, the EU, and China, where governments are asserting greater control over the internet within their borders. The challenge, observers say, is ensuring that safety and freedom can coexist online.