Fake News: NITDA Sets Code Of Practice For Interactive Computer, Internet Platforms

BY SEGUN ADEBAYO, ABUJA – The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced a new Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms, Internet Intermediaries and Conditions for Operating in Nigeria.

NITDA noted that the new global reality is that the activities conducted on the Online Platforms wield enormous influence over the society, social interaction, and economic choices thus the Code of Practice is an intervention to recalibrate the relationship of Online Platforms with Nigerians, to maximise mutual benefits for the nation, while promoting a sustainable digital economy.

Accordingly, NITDA said that as part of plans to to ensure compliance with the Code of Practice, it notified all Interactive Computer Service Platforms, internet Intermediaries operating in Nigeria that the Federal Government had already set out conditions for operating in the country.

These were contained in a statement by the Agency in which it explained that the Code of Practice is aimed at protecting fundamental human rights of Nigerians and non-Nigerians living in the country and to define guidelines for interacting on the digital ecosystem.

The NITDA statement signed by Mrs. Hadiza Umar, Director of Public Affairs of NITDA, further said that the code of practice is in line with international best practices as obtainable in democratic nations such as the United States of America, United Kingdom, European Union, and United Nations.

Mrs Umar further said that the Code which was developed in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), has input from Interactive Computer Service Platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Google, Tik Tok amongst others.

NITDA added that other relevant stakeholders with peculiar knowledge in this area were consulted such as Civil Society Organizations and expert groups, adding that the results of the consultations were duly incorporated into the Draft Code of Practice.

The Agency further said; “The Code sets out procedures to safeguard the security and welfare of Nigerians while interacting on the Platforms. It aimed to demand accountability from Online Platforms regarding unlawful and harmful contents on their platforms”.

NITDA also said that it has established a robust framework for collaborative efforts to protect Nigerians against online harms, such as hate speech, cyber-bullying, as well as disinformation and or misinformation.