The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced that major tech giants, including Google, Meta, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Microsoft, contributed N2.55 trillion ($1.5 billion) in taxes to Nigeria’s Federal Government within the first half of 2024.
This revelation was made in a statement shared by NITDA on X on Wednesday, titled “NITDA Commends Tech Giants for Adhering to Code of Practice.” The agency attributed the revenue boost to a robust regulatory framework and increased compliance by foreign digital companies operating in the country.
“Data from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveal that foreign digital companies, including interactive computer service platforms and internet intermediaries, contributed over N2.55 trillion in taxes in H1 2024. This significant increase underscores the role of effective regulation in driving growth within the digital economy,” the statement signed by NITDA’s Head of Public Affairs, Hadiza Umar, read.
The agency also disclosed that in 2023, social media platforms deactivated 12.1 million Nigerian accounts for various violations and took down 65.8 million pieces of content that breached platform policies.
“Platforms received 4.1 million complaints from Nigerians, leading to the removal of 379,433 pieces of content, some of which were reinstated following appeals,” Umar revealed.
NITDA commended tech companies like Google, X, Microsoft, and TikTok for adhering to the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries. The code, jointly issued by NITDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), aims to enhance online safety and address harmful content.
“These platforms have shown remarkable progress in fostering a safer and more responsible digital environment. We look forward to continued collaboration to tackle emerging challenges,” the agency stated.
