SOME foreign digital companies operating in Nigeria, including Google, Microsoft, and TikTok paid a total of N2.55 trillion (N1.5 billion) in taxes in the first half of this year.

This was revealed by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications & Media Relations, Mrs. Hadiza Umar, relying on data from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) disclosed this.

The Development agency commended Google, Microsoft, X, and TikTok for their compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries.

The Code, which was issued jointly by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and NITDA outlined clear guidelines for promoting online safety and managing harmful content.

NITDA noted that this has also boosted the government’s revenue through the payment of taxes by digital companies.

“Data from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveal that foreign digital companies, including interactive computer service platforms and internet intermediaries (such as social media platforms) operating in Nigeria, contributed over N2.55 trillion (approximately $1.5 billion) in taxes in H1 2024.

“This significant increase in revenue underscores the role of robust regulatory frameworks in shaping compliance and driving revenue growth in the digital economy,” NITDA stated.

Providing an update on the level of compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries, NITDA said all the digital platforms have been making efforts to address user safety concerns in line with the Code and the platforms’ community guidelines.

Further analysis of the document showed that the platforms received 4,125,283 registered complaints in 2023; content takedown, 65.8 million; content removed and re-uploaded after appeal by users, 379,433; closed and deactivated accounts, 12.09 million.

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While commending the progress made, NITDA emphasises the need for continued collaboration and innovation to address emerging challenges and ensure a safer and more responsible digital space.

Recall that NITDA in June 2022 announced the Code, which seeks to regulate social media blogs and online publications.

Part of the Code dictates that internet platforms including social media must act expeditiously upon receiving a notice from a user, or an authorised government agency of the presence of unlawful content on its Platform.

Act quickly to remove, disable, or block access to non-consensual content that exposes a person’s private areas, full or partial nudity, sexual act, deepfake, or revenge porn, where such content is targeted to harass, disrepute, or intimidate an individual.

Disclose the identity of the creator of information on its Platform when directed to do so by a Court order.