SHALOM OLALEYE
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with non-profit organization , the Advocacy for Policy and Innovation (API), has released a groundbreaking whitepaper on the Framework for an Online Harms Protection Bill in Nigeria.
The document aims to address the growing challenge of online harm in the country and is the outcome of discussions held during Nigeria’s inaugural Content Moderation and Online Safety Summit, hosted by API in July 2022.
This whitepaper represents a significant step toward creating a safer digital ecosystem in Nigeria, said Kashifu Inuwa, Director General of NITDA. It not only highlights the prevalence of online harms but also offers actionable ideas for regulatory measures that prioritize protecting citizens, especially children, in the online space.
The document includes a detailed analysis of online harms, examines global regulatory approaches, and proposes ideas for creating a robust framework to combat these challenges in Nigeria.
The whitepaper is designed to serve as a foundation for stakeholder engagement in developing a comprehensive Online Harms Protection Bill. Rather than a final blueprint, it offers a basis for collaboration among government agencies, civil society, security stakeholders, and international internet platforms.
We see this as an inclusive effort, said an API representative. This is not just about regulation but creating a vibrant digital ecosystem that balances safety and innovation.
NITDA and API encourage public participation in the process. Stakeholders are invited to share their feedback and recommendations via the designated email address, OHPwhitepaper.secretariat@apiintelligence.org.
Responses will be collated and discussed in subsequent engagements to refine the proposed framework.
The whitepaper is available for download onPlease download or read the Whitepaper via this link: https://links.nitda.gov.ng/ohpb