NITDA [The National Information Technology Development Agency] has released a thoroughly grafted code of Conduct and Practice for all Functioning social media platforms in Nigeria.
The Agency in the Code of Conduct, revealed that interactive computer service platforms and Internet intermediaries are required to reach certain conditions in running their services in the country.
According to a statement issued by NITDA on Monday 13 June 2022, The Code of Practice was dutifully grafted by the NITDA alongside the Nigerian Communications Commission[NCC] and National Broadcasting Commission, [NBC] with input from online platforms and social media giants such as , Facebook, Google, WhatsApp, Twitter ,Instagram, and TikTok.
One amongst other conditions in the Code of Conduct that must be met is that each Interactive online platforms [ Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Google, TikTok ] is required to have a representative in the country, who will interface with the Nigerian authorities.
Other Stated conditions include a compulsory registrations with the Corporate Affairs Commission [CAC] as a legal entity, in compliance with tax obligations, and strict following and execution of regulatory and legal demands.
The Code of Conduct and Practice is aimed at keeping in the perimeter of safety the fundamental human rights of Nigerians and non-Nigerians living in the country and also regulating daily interactions of Users on online platforms.