Why Big Tech Companies Blocked 13.5m Nigerian Accounts

Information has emerged why big tech companies, including Google, Microsoft, and TikTok, blocked more than 13.5 million Nigerian accounts in 2024.

This is coming amidst submission of the 2024 compliance report under the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms and Internet Intermediaries, by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA)

The above is a framework jointly issued by NITDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission, and the National Broadcasting Commission

In a statement signed by its Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, Hadiza Umar, NITDA said the blocking of the 13.5 million accounts by the big tech companies was done as part of the compliance with Nigeria’s Code of Practice for online safety.

The Code outlines a number of conditions including:

1. obligations for large service providers to register in Nigeria,
2. to comply with local laws,
3. meet tax obligations, and
4. adopt measures to safeguard users from harmful online practices.

Providing further details, the NITDA, said the reports have revealed that users lodged a total of 754,629 complaints in 2024, leading to the takedown of 58,909,112 pieces of content judged to be harmful.

420,439 items of content were removed and later re-uploaded following successful appeals by users, while 13,597,057 accounts were permanently closed or deactivated for violations.

According to the agency the above is a demonstration of commitment to maintaining a safer online space for users.

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“The submission of these reports marks a significant step towards fostering a safer and more responsible digital environment for Nigerian users.

“Building a safer digital space requires sustained collaboration and engagement among all stakeholders. “We remain committed to working with industry players, civil society, and regulatory partners to strengthen user safety measures, enhance digital literacy, and promote trust and transparency in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem”, the statement added.

NITDA was full of complimentary words for the big tech companies for continued compliance, even as it added that such remained key to digital accountability.