The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has said that major foreign tech companies operating in Nigeria, such as Microsoft, Google, TikTok, and other social media platforms, remitted a total tax of N2.55 trillion ($1.5bn) during the first half of the year. This was according to data released on the agency’s X handle.
A Tuesday statement signed by the Agency’s Director of Corporate Communications & Media Relations, Mrs. Hadiza Umar, emphasized that the data were quoted from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
While noting the growing economic impact of the sector’s contribution to national development, NITDA however commended the tech giants for their adherence to the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries.
The Code initially issued jointly by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and NITDA stresses clear guidelines for promoting online safety and managing harmful content across all digital spaces in Nigeria.
NITDA also noted that the compliance of these companies with tax payments has contributed significantly to the government’s revenue.
“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,” the statement reads.
Compliance with NITDA digital safety
In a bid to comply with Nigeria’s regulatory requirement for managing online content, the likes of Google, X (formerly Twitter), Microsoft, and TikTok have removed more than 65 million pieces of content from their platforms. According to NITDA, the data is a part of the 2023 compliance report on the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms and Internet Intermediaries.
The agency’s report shows that 65,853,581 pieces of content were taken down across the four platforms following complaints by users. The statement revealed that a total of 4,125,283 complaints were lodged by Nigerian users regarding harmful content. This led to the deactivation of about 12 million accounts including the removal of negative contents.
In addition, 379,433 pieces of content were re-uploaded following successful user appeals. This further stressed that the platforms are open to content review and user appeals.
In its statement, NITDA commended the social media platforms for being responsive to the Code of Practice. “The National Information Technology Development Agency has commended Google, X, Microsoft, 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, National Broadcasting Commission, and NITDA outlines clear guidelines for promoting online safety and managing harmful content,” the agency stated.
NITDA said its goal is to promote a safer and more transparent online environment for Nigerians.
“The 2023 compliance report provides valuable insight into the platform’s efforts to address user safety concerns in line with the Code of Practice and the platforms’ community guidelines. The highlight of the overall statistics across all the platforms includes the following: 4,125,283 registered complaints; and 65,853,581 content takedowns.379,433 removed and re-uploaded content following an appeal by users; 12,099,633 closed and deactivated accounts,” it added.
NITDA urged the tech giants for continued collaboration to promote digital safety and content moderation which are vital for combating digital challenges.
NITDA’s continued effort for a safer digital space
For a while, NITDA has been in an awareness campaign that seeks to provide a digital safe environment for Nigerians.
Last week, Technext reported that the agency partnered with TikTok and Data Science Nigeria, also known as Data Scientists Network (DSN), to launch the second phase of the #SaferTogether online safety and digital awareness program in Lagos and Abuja.
The initiative was aimed at creating a safer digital environment by equipping parents, teachers, and guardians with the knowledge and tools needed to help young people safely navigate TikTok and the broader digital landscape. The partnership also aligns with NITDA’s mission to foster digital literacy, enhance technology infrastructure, and support inclusive access to digital tools and services.
Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, TikTok’s Government Relations and Public Policy Director for Africa noted that TikTok’s commitment to creating a safer space for all will be driven by an inclusive and collaborative approach, going forward: “The community empowerment campaign highlights the importance of safety being a shared responsibility. With the additional layer that the Safety Advisory Council presents, we believe that safety can be achieved, collectively.”
Some days back, NITDA warned Nigerians about a cyberattack in connection to Spotify. Where cyber threat actors are using the popular music streaming platform to promote harmful activities.
The agency explained that these unidentified individuals exploit Spotify to advertise game hacks and spam links, thereby exposing users to all forms of cyber threats. They also promote pirated software (commonly referred to as ‘cracks’) and other malicious sites. NITDA advised Nigerians to strictly adhere to cybersecurity cautions and stay vigilant. This will help in protecting their personal information and devices for a safer digital community.
