A controversial bill seeking to compel bloggers and multinational social media platforms to establish physical offices in Nigeria has advanced in the Senate, sparking nationwide debates on digital freedom, regulation, and economic impact.

Sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko (APC, Delta North), the bill successfully scaled its second reading on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, and has been referred to the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security for further review within two months.

Key Provisions of the Bill

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  1. Mandatory Physical Presence: Global social media platforms such as Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat must open operational offices in Nigeria, ensuring local representation.
  2. Blogger Regulation: Independent bloggers will be mandated to establish verifiable offices in any state capital, keep detailed employee records, and join a recognized national association headquartered in Abuja.
  3. Economic and Legal Compliance: The bill aims to boost tax revenues, enhance data protection, and create an avenue for legal accountability in Nigeria’s digital space.
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Why This Bill Matters
Supporters argue that social media platforms and bloggers must contribute more to Nigeria’s economy, particularly through taxation and employment generation. However, critics warn that the bill could stifle digital journalism, limit freedom of expression, and create barriers for content creators and small-scale bloggers.

Senate’s Next Steps
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the session, emphasized the need for robust deliberations before a final decision. With two months for committee review, stakeholders—including tech giants, bloggers, legal experts, and civil rights groups—are expected to engage in intense lobbying for or against the bill.