The Federal Government has suspended the implementation of newly introduced regulations governing internet platforms, online intermediaries and other cross-cutting issues within Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital economy, signalling a major policy shift aimed at creating a more coordinated regulatory framework.
The directive, announced on Tuesday, effectively places on hold the enforcement of the new rules while the government develops a harmonised national policy framework to guide the regulation of the country’s digital ecosystem.
The move is expected to affect a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including technology companies, social media platforms, digital service providers, online marketplaces and other internet-based businesses that would have been subject to the new regulatory measures.
According to the Federal Government, the suspension is intended to allow for the formulation of a unified policy that aligns the roles of relevant government institutions, eliminates regulatory overlaps and ensures consistency in the governance of Nigeria’s digital economy.
The decision comes amid increasing calls from industry players, investors and digital rights advocates for clearer, predictable and more collaborative regulations capable of supporting innovation while safeguarding national interests.
Officials say the harmonised framework will provide a comprehensive roadmap for regulating internet platforms and digital services, balancing technological innovation, consumer protection, cybersecurity, economic growth and regulatory certainty.
The government has yet to announce a timeline for the completion of the policy framework or when the suspended regulations may eventually be reviewed and implemented. Until then, the implementation of the new digital economy regulations remains on hold.
