Google, Microsoft, TikTok Deactivate 13.5 Million Accounts in 2024 to Comply with Nigeria’s Online Safety Code

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) revealed on Wednesday that major tech companies—Google, Microsoft, and TikTok—deactivated over 13.5 million user accounts in 2024 as part of their adherence to Nigeria’s Code of Practice for online safety.

This disclosure came with the submission of the 2024 compliance report under the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms and Internet Intermediaries. The Code, jointly developed by NITDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), mandates large online platforms to register locally, comply with Nigerian laws, pay taxes, and implement safeguards against harmful digital content.

According to NITDA, the compliance data submitted by these platforms showed that Nigerian users filed 754,629 complaints throughout the year. These complaints led to the removal of 58,909,112 pieces of harmful content. Additionally, 420,439 pieces of content were initially removed but later reinstated after successful appeals. A total of 13,597,057 user accounts were permanently deactivated for violations of platform policies and the Code.

In a statement issued by its Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, Hadiza Umar, NITDA emphasized that the submission of these compliance reports represents a major step toward promoting a safer and more accountable digital environment in Nigeria. The agency acknowledged the companies’ efforts to uphold their own community standards while aligning with the Code’s objectives.

“The submission of these reports marks a significant step towards fostering a safer and more responsible digital environment for Nigerian users,” the agency said. “Sustained collaboration among platforms, civil society, and regulators is essential to build digital trust, promote transparency, and boost digital literacy.”

NITDA commended Google, Microsoft, and TikTok for their ongoing compliance and highlighted the importance of transparency through the regular publication of such reports.

As part of Nigeria’s broader push to regulate its growing digital economy, authorities have intensified scrutiny of major online platforms in recent years. While social media continues to play a crucial role in communication and economic activity, concerns over cyberbullying, misinformation, and online scams persist. The Code of Practice, introduced in 2022, seeks to balance innovation with user protection.

NITDA concluded by noting that while progress has been made, sustained stakeholder cooperation is vital to maintaining a secure, inclusive, and trustworthy digital space for Nigerians.