Google, Microsoft, and Other Tech Giants Remove Over 65 Million Harmful Contents in Nigeria

 

By Joshua Omoniyi 

In a significant move toward enhancing online safety in Nigeria, major technology companies including Google, X (formerly Twitter), Microsoft, and TikTok have collectively removed over 65 million pieces of harmful content from their platforms. This action follows a comprehensive report released by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

On December 4, 2024, NITDA's Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, Mrs. Hadiza Umar, announced that the massive takedown of content was a direct response to user complaints. The report is part of the agency's 2023 compliance review of the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms and Internet Intermediaries, a set of guidelines established in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission and the National Broadcasting Commission.

According to the report, a staggering 65,853,581 pieces of content were flagged and subsequently removed across the four platforms due to user reports. Additionally, Nigerian users lodged 4,125,283 complaints regarding harmful content, which led to the deactivation of over 12 million user accounts involved in the violation of community standards.

The report also highlighted the responsiveness of these platforms, as it noted that 379,433 pieces of content were re-uploaded following successful user appeals, indicating a commitment to user feedback and content review processes.

NITDA expressed appreciation for the compliance of these tech giants with the Code of Practice, which aims to create a safer online environment for Nigerians. The agency emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration between tech firms and regulatory bodies to tackle emerging digital challenges, particularly in content moderation and user safety.

Furthermore, data from the Federal Inland Revenue Service and the National Bureau of Statistics revealed that foreign digital companies, including social media platforms, contributed more than N2.55 trillion (approximately $1.5 billion) in taxes during the first half of 2024, underscoring the growing economic significance of the digital sector in Nigeria.

As the digital landscape evolves, NITDA's report serves as a reminder of the critical role that both technology companies and regulatory agencies play in ensuring a safe and accountable online environment for users in Nigeria.