The Nigerian Senate is considering a new bill that would require social media companies like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and TikTok to establish physical offices in Nigeria. This proposal has passed its second reading, and lawmakers want to assure the public that it is not meant to restrict social media freedom.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio said this regulation of social media platforms and bloggers needs careful thought. He acknowledged that having a local address for these digital companies is necessary and long overdue. Akpabio noted, “It’s good to have an address, but bloggers are slightly different. I think the best thing is for the bill to go for a second reading and later a public hearing for better clarity.”
Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, who is sponsoring the bill, stressed that this regulation is not just important for Nigeria’s growth, but it is also vital for the country’s economy and technology development. He said the bill aims to address how big social media companies interact with Nigeria. AS such, Meta, TikTok and Whatsapp offices in Nigeria is crucial.
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The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023,” would require these companies to have offices within Nigeria’s borders. Nwoko highlighted that Nigeria, with over 220 million people, has a strong digital presence and leads Africa in social media usage. However, many international companies like Meta, TikTok and WhatsApp do not have offices in Nigeria.
The senator pointed out that the lack of social media offices creates several problems, such as limited local representation and difficulties in legal and data protection compliance. To tackle these issues, the bill also proposes new rules for bloggers in Nigeria. It would require them to set up a verifiable office in any state capital, keep proper employee records, and join a recognized national association of bloggers based in Abuja.
Nwoko emphasized that this measure is meant to encourage accountability, transparency, and professionalism in Nigeria’s digital media space, similar to what is expected of traditional media outlets. He clarified that the bill does not attack social media platforms but demands fairness and respect for Nigeria as a leader in digital engagement.
After the discussions, the bill was sent to the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security for further review, with plans to report back in two months. The push for Meta, TikTok and Whatsapp offices in Nigeria reflects a growing concern for more local representation from major digital players in the country’s vibrant online community.
