The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced that foreign digital companies operating in Nigeria, such as Google, Microsoft, TikTok, and others, paid a total of N2.55 trillion in taxes during the first half of 2024.
This was disclosed in a statement by NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, Mrs. Hadiza Umar, citing data from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The agency commended these platforms for adhering to the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms and Internet Intermediaries.
The Code of Practice, developed by NITDA in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), establishes guidelines to ensure online safety and address harmful content. According to NITDA, the compliance of major digital platforms with this Code has not only improved user safety but also contributed significantly to government revenue. The agency noted that the N2.55 trillion collected in taxes reflects the impact of a robust regulatory framework in fostering compliance and boosting the digital economy.
In addition to the financial contributions, NITDA provided updates on the platforms’ efforts to improve user safety. It revealed that in 2023 alone, the platforms received over 4.1 million complaints and took down 65.8 million harmful pieces of content. Notably, 379,433 pieces of content were restored after users appealed, and over 12 million accounts were deactivated for violating policies. These measures highlight the platforms’ commitment to maintaining a safer online environment in alignment with the Code.
NITDA emphasized the importance of the Code in regulating social media platforms, blogs, and online publications to protect users and promote accountability. Among other provisions, the Code mandates platforms to remove unlawful content swiftly upon receiving a report, disable access to non-consensual explicit content, and disclose the identity of content creators when ordered by a court. These measures aim to safeguard public order, national security, and individual privacy while addressing evolving digital threats.
While commending the progress made so far, NITDA called for continuous collaboration and innovation to tackle emerging challenges in the digital space. The agency reiterated its commitment to fostering a safer and more responsible online ecosystem, underpinned by effective regulations and partnerships with digital platforms.