A bill that would require major social media companies such as Meta, Google and X to establish physical offices in Nigeria has moved a step closer to becoming law after receiving strong backing at a Senate public hearing.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North), seeks to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 by making it mandatory for social media platforms operating in Nigeria to maintain offices within the country.
The bill was discussed during a public hearing organised by the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security on Thursday.
Speaking at the event, the committee’s chairman, Senator Shuaib Salisu, said the bill is intended to strengthen Nigeria’s digital space and improve engagement between global technology companies and the country.
He explained that the proposal is part of broader efforts to enhance cybersecurity and improve digital governance, alongside another bill aimed at establishing an Artificial Intelligence Academy in Nigeria.
Representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate Leader Lola Ashiru described the proposed legislation as a forward-looking initiative designed to improve governance through effective laws.
He also stressed that the bill is not intended to discourage investment or limit innovation by technology companies.
Senator Ned Nwoko defended the proposal, saying it is meant to encourage global tech firms to play a more active role in Nigeria’s economy.
“This bill is neither punitive nor hostile to innovation. It is not designed to frustrate investment or discourage technology companies from operating in Nigeria,” Nwoko said.
“On the contrary, it seeks to deepen their engagement with Nigeria by encouraging them to become true corporate citizens of our country.”
The lawmaker argued that several countries with smaller populations and digital markets already host regional offices of major technology companies.
He listed countries including the United Kingdom, India, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Brazil, Australia, Japan, Spain and the Netherlands as examples where companies like Meta and Google have established operational hubs.
According to him, those offices have created jobs, increased tax revenue, strengthened regulatory cooperation, promoted technology transfer and attracted foreign investment.
Questioning why Nigeria should continue to miss out on similar benefits, Nwoko said:
“If countries with significantly smaller populations and digital markets than Nigeria have secured these investments and benefits, why should Nigeria continue to stand on the sidelines? Why should Africa’s largest digital market not enjoy the same opportunities?”
If eventually passed into law, the bill would require global social media companies operating in Nigeria to establish a physical presence in the country, a move supporters believe could improve accountability, regulatory compliance and economic opportunities.
