- Google, Microsoft, TikTok Among Top Compliant Platforms
- NITDA Highlights Success of Regulatory Framework on Digital Economy
- Over 65 Million Harmful Content Pieces Removed in Compliance Drive
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has disclosed that foreign digital companies operating in Nigeria, including Google, Microsoft, TikTok, and others, contributed a total of N2.55 trillion in taxes during the first half of 2024.
The revelation was made in a statement on Tuesday 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).
NITDA commended platforms such as Google, Microsoft, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok for adhering to the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries. This regulatory framework, jointly developed by NITDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), aims to promote online safety and manage harmful digital content.
Positive Impacts of Regulation
NITDA noted that the regulations have significantly boosted government revenue and improved compliance with user safety standards.
“Data from the FIRS and NBS reveals that foreign digital companies, including interactive computer service platforms, contributed over N2.55 trillion (approximately $1.5 billion) in taxes during H1 2024. This underscores the effectiveness of robust regulatory frameworks in driving revenue growth and compliance in the digital economy,” NITDA stated.
Compliance Statistics
According to NITDA, in 2023, digital platforms reported the following:
- Registered complaints: 4,125,283
- Content takedowns: 65.8 million
- Re-uploaded content after appeals: 379,433
- Closed/deactivated accounts: 12.09 million
NITDA emphasized the progress achieved in ensuring safer online spaces and called for continued collaboration to address emerging challenges in the digital ecosystem.
Background on the Code of Practice
Introduced in June 2022, the Code of Practice mandates internet platforms, including social media, to:
- Promptly act on user or government notifications about unlawful content.
- Quickly remove non-consensual or harmful content, such as deepfakes and revenge porn.
- Disclose the identity of content creators when directed by a court order, particularly in cases involving public safety, sovereignty, or offenses like child abuse or rape.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a responsible and secure digital environment while driving innovation and economic growth.
