The Senate has scheduled a public hearing for Wednesday, 22 July, on my Bill seeking to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, to require major social media platforms operating in Nigeria to establish physical offices within the country.
This marks another important step in the legislative process and provides an opportunity for stakeholders, industry experts, civil society organisations, technology companies, legal practitioners and members of the public to contribute to shaping a stronger and more responsive digital ecosystem for Nigeria.
Nigeria is one of the world’s largest and most active digital markets. Millions of Nigerians rely on social media platforms every day for communication, business, education, innovation, civic engagement and entertainment. Our creators, entrepreneurs and businesses generate enormous value for these global platforms, yet the absence of a physical presence in Nigeria continues to create significant challenges for users, regulators and businesses alike.
This Bill is not intended to restrict freedom of expression, regulate opinions or interfere with the operation of digital platforms. Rather, it seeks to ensure that companies deriving substantial economic value from Nigeria maintain a reasonable level of corporate presence and responsibility within the country.
A physical office will facilitate quicker resolution of user complaints, improve engagement with regulatory authorities, strengthen compliance with Nigeria’s data protection laws, support consumer protection, encourage responsible corporate conduct and foster greater trust between these platforms and their Nigerian users.
The Bill also presents significant economic opportunities. Establishing local offices will encourage investment, create jobs for Nigerian professionals, expand opportunities for technology transfer, strengthen our digital economy and support the growth of Nigeria’s vibrant innovation ecosystem. As Africa’s largest economy and one of the world’s leading digital communities, Nigeria deserves to be treated as a strategic market worthy of direct engagement.
Many multinational technology companies already maintain offices in countries where they have significant operations. Nigeria should not be an exception. Our size, talent, market potential and strategic importance justify a stronger corporate presence from global digital platforms operating within our jurisdiction.
I welcome constructive contributions from all stakeholders during the public hearing. Good legislation is built through consultation, dialogue and the exchange of ideas. I am confident that this process will produce a balanced legal framework that protects users, promotes innovation, encourages investment and strengthens Nigeria’s position in the global digital economy.
__Senator Ned Munir Nwoko
Senator Representing Delta North Senatorial District
Chairman, Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation
