Major tech platforms, including Google, Microsoft, and TikTok, deactivated over 13.5 million accounts in Nigeria in 2024, according to the latest compliance report submitted to the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The report highlights efforts by global tech companies to adhere to Nigeria’s Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms and Internet Intermediaries.
The Code of Practice, introduced in 2022, is a regulatory framework jointly issued by NITDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
It requires online platforms to register locally, comply with Nigerian laws, meet tax obligations, and adopt measures that protect users from harmful content and online practices.
According to the report, Nigerian users lodged a total of 754,629 complaints in 2024.
These complaints resulted in the removal of 58,909,112 pieces of content considered harmful under the Code of Practice and the platforms’ community guidelines.
Additionally, 420,439 pieces of content were initially removed but later reinstated following successful user appeals. Overall, 13,597,057 accounts were permanently deactivated due to violations ranging from misinformation and cyberbullying to fraud and other unsafe practices.
Hadiza Umar, NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, described the report submission as a milestone for digital accountability in Nigeria.
“The submission of these reports marks a significant step towards fostering a safer and more responsible digital environment for Nigerian users.
Platforms are demonstrating transparency and commitment to user protection, which are central to building trust in the digital ecosystem,” Umar said.
Nigeria has intensified oversight of major online platforms in recent years, citing the growing risks of misinformation, online scams, exploitation, and cyberbullying.
While social media remains a key tool for communication, commerce, and innovation, authorities stress that effective regulation is necessary to safeguard citizens.
NITDA emphasized that protecting Nigerians from online harm requires collaboration between platforms, regulators, civil society, and users.
The agency highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue, digital literacy programs, and proactive enforcement to ensure a safe, inclusive, and transparent online ecosystem.
“Building a safer digital space requires sustained collaboration among all stakeholders.
NITDA remains committed to strengthening user safety measures, enhancing digital literacy, and promoting trust across Nigeria’s digital landscape,” the statement added.
Google, Microsoft, and TikTok were commended for their adherence to the Code of Practice, demonstrating accountability through the submission of detailed compliance reports.
Analysts note that such transparency reflects a growing recognition among global tech giants of Nigeria’s strategic role in the digital economy, given its large online user base and rapid internet adoption.
The deactivation of over 13.5 million accounts underscores the platforms’ commitment to maintaining secure digital environments.
Experts say these actions also serve as a warning to malicious actors who exploit online platforms for fraud, harassment, and misinformation campaigns.
The Nigerian government has repeatedly stressed that regulations like the Code of Practice are designed to strike a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring user safety.
Authorities aim to encourage investment and technological advancement while mitigating risks to citizens, particularly minors and vulnerable groups.
NITDA’s report signals progress but also highlights that regulatory enforcement alone is insufficient.
Continuous collaboration, robust digital literacy campaigns, and responsible platform governance remain essential to protect Nigeria’s fast-growing digital economy.
As Nigeria continues to tighten oversight of its online space, stakeholders expect increased accountability from global tech companies, better safeguards for users, and expanded efforts to tackle harmful content, ensuring the country’s digital ecosystem remains safe, transparent, and resilient.