Social media offices bill heads to public hearing
The Senate has scheduled a public hearing for July 22 on a bill seeking to compel major social media platforms operating in Nigeria to establish physical offices in the country.
The sponsor of the bill, Senator Ned Nwoko (APC–Delta North), disclosed this in a statement on Friday, describing the development as a significant milestone in the legislative process.
*Nwoko
Nathan Tamarapreye
The Senate has scheduled a public hearing for July 22 on a bill seeking to compel major social media platforms operating in Nigeria to establish physical offices in the country.
The sponsor of the bill, Senator Ned Nwoko (APC–Delta North), disclosed this in a statement on Friday, describing the development as a significant milestone in the legislative process.
The bill seeks to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, to require major social media companies operating in Nigeria to maintain a physical presence in the country.
Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District and chairs the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, said the public hearing would provide stakeholders, industry experts, civil society organisations, technology companies, legal practitioners and members of the public with an opportunity to contribute to a stronger and more responsive digital ecosystem.
“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.”
The senator stressed that the proposed legislation was not designed to restrict freedom of expression, regulate opinions or interfere with the operations 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 and support consumer protection.
“It will also encourage responsible corporate conduct and foster greater trust between these platforms and their Nigerian users.”
According to Nwoko, the bill also presents significant economic opportunities for the country.
“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.”
Nwoko welcomed constructive contributions from stakeholders during the public hearing, noting that effective legislation is built through consultation and dialogue.
“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,” he stated.
