The Federal Government has revealed plans to regulate TikTok and similar social media platforms, in a move that has stirred reactions across the country. The disclosure came from Kashifu Inuwa Abdullah, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), during a recent briefing.
According to Abdullah, the regulation aims to ensure TikTok is not used solely for entertainment. He explained that the government wants to channel young Nigerians’ creativity toward productive and innovative digital engagement, instead of allowing “purely entertainment-driven content” to dominate the space.
The announcement has since triggered mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians questioning the timing and intent of the decision. Critics argue that the government should focus more on economic revival and unemployment, rather than imposing control on social media platforms.
On the other hand, some voices support the initiative, suggesting it could promote digital literacy and encourage young people to create more educational and value-driven content. Still, many fear this might be a subtle step toward censorship or limiting freedom of expression.
As discussions continue, Nigerians are watching closely to see how far this new regulation will go — and whether it will uplift or restrict the country’s fast-growing digital creativity.
