The federal government announced on Tuesday, December 3, that it has generated approximately $1.5 billion (2.55 trillion naira) in taxes from major tech companies, including Google, X (formerly Twitter), Microsoft, and TikTok, during the year 2024.
The government commended these social media and tech platforms for their strict compliance with the country's code of practice for interactive computer services and online platforms.
According to the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), these platforms have removed over 65.8 million offensive pieces of content during the year, in line with the guidelines established by the government.
The government has expressed appreciation to tech giants such as Google, X, Microsoft, and TikTok for adhering to the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms and Internet Intermediaries.
This was highlighted in a statement signed by Hajiya Hadiza Umar, the Director of Corporate Communications at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
The NITDA also noted that government agencies, including the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), have collaborated to ensure online safety and compliance with the code of practice issued to these tech companies.
The statement highlights that the Code of Practice, issued jointly by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), establishes clear guidelines for promoting online safety and addressing harmful content.
It further notes that the 2023 compliance report offers valuable insights into the efforts of these platforms to address user safety concerns in accordance with the Code of Practice and their respective community guidelines.
NITDA recognizes the beneficial effects of these platforms' initiatives in creating a more secure and responsible online environment for both Nigerians and non-Nigerians in Nigeria.
Additionally, information from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) shows that foreign digital businesses operating in Nigeria, such as social media platforms and interactive computer service platforms, paid more than N2.55 trillion (roughly $1.5 billion) in taxes in the first half of 2024.
The importance of strong regulatory frameworks in influencing compliance and propelling revenue growth in the digital economy is highlighted by this notable revenue gain.
NITDA highlights the necessity of ongoing cooperation and innovation to tackle new issues and guarantee a safer and more responsible digital environment, even as it praises the achieved accomplishments. The organization is still dedicated to collaborating with interested parties to improve and fortify digital literacy, user safety protocols, trust, and openness.