The Nigerian Senate is advancing a bill that would require global social media giants, including Facebook and TikTok, to establish physical offices within the country.
The proposal, which aims to strengthen regulatory oversight and deepen the engagement of tech firms in Africa’s largest digital market, received significant backing during a public hearing on Thursday. The session, organized by the Senate Committee on Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Cyber Security, also deliberated on a separate bill to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Academy in Omuo-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
The social media bill, sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North), seeks to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act of 2023. It mandates that all major digital platforms operating within Nigeria maintain a physical presence to ensure better accountability and legal compliance.
Defending the proposal, Senator Nwoko dismissed concerns that the law would deter foreign investment.
“This bill is neither punitive nor hostile to innovation,” Nwoko stated. “It is not designed to frustrate investment or discourage technology companies. Rather, it seeks to encourage them to become true corporate citizens of our country.”
Nwoko argued that Nigeria is currently missing out on the economic benefits enjoyed by nations like the UK, India, Brazil, and South Africa, where tech hubs have created jobs, boosted tax revenues, and facilitated technology transfer.
“These countries did not attract such investments by accident,” he added. “They recognized that the digital economy is now as vital as the traditional economy. Nigeria, with its massive digital market, must not be left behind.”
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio—represented by Deputy Senate Leader Lola Ashiru—described the initiative as a strategic move for national development. He emphasized that the physical office requirement is intended to improve regulatory engagement and ensure these platforms contribute meaningfully to the local economy.
Simultaneously, the committee considered the AI Academy bill, sponsored by Senator Yemi Adaramodu (Ekiti South). The academy is envisioned as a center for research, innovation, and specialized education to position Nigeria as a leader in the global AI race.
Chairman of the Committee, Senator Shuaib Salisu (Ogun Central), noted that both bills are designed to fortify Nigeria’s digital infrastructure. The committee is expected to review stakeholders’ memoranda before presenting its final recommendations to the Senate for further legislative action.
