Senate Approves Bill Mandating Social Media Companies to Establish Physical Nigerian Offices

The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday passed a bill mandating multinational social media companies to establish physical offices in Nigeria. The bill, titled A Bill to Alter the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (SB. 648), was sponsored by Senator Ned Munir Nwoko (Delta North). It was first read on November 21, 2024.

Nwoko argued that the bill is vital for Nigeria’s digital sovereignty, economic growth, and better regulation of online platforms. He pointed out that while Nigeria is one of the world’s largest social media user bases, platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok operate without local offices.

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He highlighted three key issues: limited local representation, lost economic opportunities, and challenges in resolving issues. Nwoko explained that the lack of physical offices creates delays in resolving user complaints and regulatory concerns. It also prevents Nigeria from benefiting economically through job creation, skill development, and technology transfer.

The bill also proposes that all bloggers in Nigeria must have verifiable offices in any capital city and be part of a recognised national association. Nwoko argued that this would enhance professionalism in the digital media sector.

The bill received unanimous support in the Senate, with Senate President Godwill Akpabio stating it aimed to increase tax revenue, not restrict media freedoms.

It has been referred to the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security for further review.