Foreign digital giants, including Google, Meta, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Microsoft, have collectively paid N2.55 trillion (about $1.5 billion) in taxes to the Nigerian government in the first half of 2024, according to the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
NITDA shared this information in a statement titled “NITDA Commends Tech Giants for Adhering to Code of Practice,” posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday. The agency attributed the increase in tax revenue to compliance efforts by interactive computer service platforms and internet intermediaries operating in Nigeria, supported by data from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The statement, signed by Hadiza Umar, NITDA’s Head of Public Affairs, highlighted, “This significant revenue growth underscores the effectiveness of regulatory frameworks in ensuring compliance and fostering development in the digital economy.”
Additionally, NITDA revealed that in 2023, social media platforms deactivated 12.1 million accounts belonging to Nigerians for various offenses and removed 65.8 million pieces of content that violated platform policies.
While applauding the platforms’ adherence to regulations, NITDA stressed the need for continuous collaboration and innovation to address evolving challenges and create a safer digital space.
Insights from the agency’s 2023 compliance report showcase efforts by these platforms to prioritize user safety and align with the Code of Practice and community standards.
