The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has officially unveiled a Whitepaper on the Framework for an Online Harms Protection Bill in Nigeria. This landmark document, developed in partnership with Advocacy for Policy and Innovation (API), addresses the rising concern of online harms in Nigeria and sets the foundation for a comprehensive legislative framework.
The Whitepaper stems from insights gathered during Nigeria’s inaugural Content Moderation and Online Safety Summit, hosted by API in July 2022. It provides an in-depth analysis of the prevalence of online harms and underscores the urgency of regulatory interventions to protect Nigerians, especially vulnerable groups such as children.
Offering a wealth of conceptual ideas and research, the document explores global best practices and regulatory strategies while presenting a range of options tailored to Nigeria’s unique context. Far from a conclusive solution, the Whitepaper aims to initiate collaborative discussions among key stakeholders, including regulators, security agencies, civil society organizations, businesses, and international internet platforms.
“The Whitepaper is not a final roadmap but a catalyst for engagement and a guide for meaningful dialogue,” NITDA stated. “It reflects a collective effort to propose solutions that ensure a safe digital environment while fostering economic growth.”
Stakeholders are invited to review the document and share their feedback via email at theOHPwhitepaper.secretariat@apiintelligence.org. All inputs will be consolidated and presented to stakeholder groups for further deliberation as part of the process to develop a robust Online Harms Protection Bill.
NITDA acknowledged the invaluable contributions of its steering team members, drawn from Nigeria’s civil society and the Nigerian Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The agency also commended the project’s secretariat for their diligent efforts in compiling the research underpinning the Whitepaper.
The document is publicly accessible and can be downloaded at https://links.nitda.gov.ng/ohpb.
With this initiative, NITDA and API reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding Nigerians in the digital space while promoting a vibrant, inclusive digital economy.
