The Nigerian Senate has taken a major step toward compelling global social media platforms to set up physical offices within the country. On Tuesday, lawmakers passed for first reading an amendment to the Nigerian Data Protection Act of 2023, which would mandate platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, TikTok, and even independent bloggers to establish verifiable offices in Nigeria.
What the Bill Proposes
The bill, titled:
“A Bill for an Act to Amend the Nigerian Data Protection Act, 2023, Mandating the Establishment of Physical Offices within the Federal Republic of Nigeria by Social Media Platforms, and for Related Matters, 2025,”
was introduced by Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta State).
It seeks to:
Compel social media giants to set up physical offices in Nigeria.
Regulate bloggers, requiring them to have registered offices in any Nigerian capital city.
Ensure compliance with local regulations, including taxation and record-keeping.
Encourage digital accountability, making it easier for Nigerians to engage with these platforms.
Why the Push for Local Offices?
Senator Nwoko, who first presented the bill in November 2024, argued that with over 200 million people, Nigeria ranks second globally in social media engagement. He emphasized that the absence of local offices creates challenges, such as:
Lack of local representation, making it difficult for users and businesses to get support.
Inability to enforce Nigerian regulations, as these platforms operate remotely.
Loss of potential revenue, since most digital companies avoid taxation in Nigeria.
Mixed Reactions in the Senate
While Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged the benefits of the proposal, he cautioned against overregulating bloggers.
“It’s beneficial to have an address, but bloggers are a bit different. The best approach is for the bill to go for a second reading, followed by a public hearing to provide more clarity,” Akpabio stated.
He assured Nigerians that the goal is not to suppress social media but to ensure better oversight, taxation, and accountability for digital platforms operating in the country.
What’s Next?
The Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security has been tasked with reviewing the bill and submitting a report within two months.
If passed into law, this amendment could reshape the digital landscape in Nigeria, forcing big tech companies and bloggers to operate under stricter local regulations.
Stay tuned for more news.
