The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, making it mandatory for social media platforms and major technology companies operating in Nigeria to maintain physical offices within the country.
Speaking during the public hearing, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security said the bill is aimed at strengthening the protection of Nigeria’s cyberspace.
He added that another proposed bill establishing an Artificial Intelligence Academy would serve as a centre of excellence for AI education, research and innovation.
A statement presented on behalf of the Senate leadership described both legislative proposals as forward-looking initiatives designed to improve governance through modern technology laws and stronger digital regulation.
Lawmakers stressed that the social media companies physical offices bill is not intended to discourage investment or create unnecessary barriers for global technology firms operating in Nigeria.
According to the presentation made during the hearing, the objective of the legislation is to encourage technology companies to deepen their presence and engagement in Nigeria.
The statement read: “This bill is neither punitive nor hostile to innovation. It is not designed to frustrate investment or discourage technology companies from operating in Nigeria. On the contrary, it seeks to deepen their engagement with Nigeria by encouraging them to become true corporate citizens of our country.”
Supporters of the proposal argue that requiring companies such as Meta, Google, and X to establish local offices could improve regulatory compliance, strengthen data protection enforcement, enhance customer support, and create employment opportunities for Nigerians.
The bill will proceed to the next stage of the legislative process in the National Assembly, where lawmakers will continue deliberations before any final decision is made.
A statement presented on behalf of the Senate leadership described both legislative proposals as forward-looking initiatives designed to improve governance through modern technology laws and stronger digital regulation.
Lawmakers stressed that the social media companies physical offices bill is not intended to discourage investment or create unnecessary barriers for global technology firms operating in Nigeria.
According to the presentation made during the hearing, the objective of the legislation is to encourage technology companies to deepen their presence and engagement in Nigeria.
The statement read: “This bill is neither punitive nor hostile to innovation. It is not designed to frustrate investment or discourage technology companies from operating in Nigeria. On the contrary, it seeks to deepen their engagement with Nigeria by encouraging them to become true corporate citizens of our country.”
Supporters of the proposal argue that requiring companies such as Meta, Google, and X to establish local offices could improve regulatory compliance, strengthen data protection enforcement, enhance customer support, and create employment opportunities for Nigerians.
The bill will proceed to the next stage of the legislative process in the National Assembly, where lawmakers will continue deliberations before any final decision is made.
If eventually passed and signed into law, the legislation could significantly reshape how global technology companies operate in Nigeria.
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