By Deborah Coker
Sen. Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta) says the bill for the Establishment of Physical Offices for Social Media Platforms in Nigeria, sponsored by him, has advanced to public hearing stage.
Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District and Chairman, Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, stated this in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Abuja on Friday.
He said that the senate had scheduled July 22 for the public hearing on the bill.
NAN reports that the bill seeks to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, to require major social media platforms operating in Nigeria to establish physical offices within the country.
According to the lawmaker, 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 the country.
“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,” he said.
Nwoko, however, maintained that the bill was not intended 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,” he said.
The senator also said that the bill presented 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,” he added.
Nwoko, who said that constructive contributions from all stakeholders would be welcomed during the public hearing, noted that good legislation is built through consultation, dialogue and 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,” he stated.
(NAN)