Senator Nwoko’s Bill for Physical Offices of Social Media Platforms Passes First Reading

The Nigerian Senate has passed the first reading of a landmark bill sponsored by Senator Ned Munir Nwoko (Delta North).

The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, LFN,” was presented on November 21, 2024, and marks a significant move towards tightening regulatory control over social media operations in the country.

The proposed amendment seeks to introduce a new article to Section 5 of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, compelling social media platforms and other data-related entities to establish physical offices within Nigeria’s borders.

The bill also includes penalties for non-compliance, including the potential prohibition of platforms that fail to set up local offices. The proposed changes would also redefine key terms such as “Data Controllers,” “Data Processors,” and “Operators of Social Media Platforms” to ensure clarity and compliance.

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Senator Nwoko, speaking on the necessity of the bill, stated that the absence of local representation by social media platforms has led to several challenges.

“The lack of physical offices in Nigeria has created numerous issues, including delays in resolving user complaints, difficulty in enforcing Nigerian laws, and a general disconnect between local users and the platforms,” he said.

He emphasized that this bill would address these challenges by making social media operators more accountable to Nigerian laws and users, while also ensuring that they align with global best practices.

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The bill’s explanatory memorandum also highlights potential economic benefits, including job creation and enhanced content moderation.

“The urgency of this legislation cannot be overstated,” Senator Nwoko added.

He also noted that the establishment of physical offices could improve trust between stakeholders and the platforms, which have come under increased scrutiny for their role in spreading misinformation and violating local regulations.