NITDA confirms removal of 65m harmful posts in Nigeria

Major tech firms, including Google, X, Microsoft, and TikTok, have removed more than 65 million pieces of content from their platforms in Nigeria following user complaints, according to a report by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications & Media Relations, Mrs Hadiza Umar, disclosed this in a statement yesterday.

The data were part of the 2023 compliance report on the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms and Internet Intermediaries, which highlights the companies’ efforts to meet Nigeria’s regulatory requirements for managing certain online content.

The code, jointly issued by NITDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission, and the National Broadcasting Commission, sets clear guidelines for promoting online safety, and curbing the spread of harmful material across digital platforms.

According to the statement, the NITDA report shows that, in total, 65,853,581 pieces of content were taken down across the four platforms after being flagged by users.

Also, 4,125,283 complaints were lodged by Nigerian users regarding harmful content, leading to the deactivation of over 12 million user accounts, and removal of offending material.

A further 379,433 pieces of content were re-uploaded following successful user appeals, indicating that the platforms were responsive to concerns and provide avenues for content review.

In line with the growing importance of digital safety, NITDA commended the platforms for adhering to the Code of Practice, which aims to create a safer and more accountable online environment for Nigerians.