The Federal Government on Tuesday, December 3, announced that it has earned about 1.5 billion dollars (2.55 trillion naira) in taxes from tech giants such as Google, X, Microsoft, and TikTok within the year 2024.

The government also lauded the social interactive platforms for strict compliance with the code of practice for interactive computer services and Internet platforms in the country.

The government through the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) said in adhering to the code of practice as spelled out by the government; over 65.8 million offensive contents had been taken down by the various platforms within the period under review.

The NITDA noted that government agencies such as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) have been involved in collaboration to ensure online safety and compliance with the code of practice handed to the tech giants by the government.

A statement signed by Hajiya Hadiza Umar, the Director of Corporate Communications at NITDA noted the government’s appreciation of “Google, X, Microsoft, and TikTok for their compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries. 0:00

The statement reads: “The Code which was issued jointly by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and NITDA outlines clear guidelines for promoting online safety and managing harmful content.

“The 2023 compliance report provides valuable insight into the platform’s efforts to address user safety concerns in line with the Code of Practice and the platforms’ community guidelines.

“The highlight of the overall statistics across all the platforms includes the following:

Four million, one hundred and twenty-five thousand, two hundred and eighty-three (4,125,283) registered complaints.

“Sixty-five million, eight hundred and fifty-three thousand, five hundred and eighty-one (65,853,581) content takedown.

“Three hundred and seventy-nine thousand, four hundred and thirty-three (379,433) removed and re-uploaded content following an appeal by users.

“Twelve million, ninety-nine thousand, six hundred and thirty-three (12,099,633) closed and deactivated accounts.

“NITDA acknowledges the positive impact of these efforts by the platforms in fostering a safer and responsible digital environment for Nigerians and non-Nigerians in Nigeria. `

“Furthermore, 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 (such as social media platforms) operating in Nigeria, contributed over N2.55 trillion (approximately $1.5 billion) in taxes in H1 2024.

“This significant increase in revenue underscores the role of robust regulatory frameworks in shaping compliance and driving revenue growth in the digital economy.

“While commending the progress made, NITDA emphasises the need for continued collaboration and innovation to address emerging challenges and ensure a safer and more responsible digital space.

“The agency remains committed to working with stakeholders to strengthen and enhance user safety measures, digital literacy, trust and transparency,” NITDA added. (The Nation)