Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has called for stronger national control over social media platforms like TikTok. He emphasized that Nigeria must assert its authority to ensure these platforms respect the country’s laws, values, and cultural identity.
In an interview with Tech 24, monitored by Tech Digest, Kashifu Inuwa stated that global digital platforms should not impose one-size-fits-all policies on Nigeria. Instead, he stressed that they must adapt their operations to align with local realities and social norms. His comments reflect growing concerns about the influence of global tech companies on national culture and digital governance.
According to him, TikTok’s current usage trends often contradict Nigeria’s moral and cultural expectations. He warned that when global platforms fail to adapt to local contexts, they risk undermining national integrity and social values. Therefore, he called for a clear regulatory framework that ensures digital platforms operate within the boundaries of Nigeria’s laws.
Furthermore, Kashifu Inuwa explained that the government’s focus is not to stifle creativity or free expression but to promote accountability and responsibility. He noted that content moderation should reflect local values while maintaining respect for global standards. Through effective regulation, he believes Nigeria can create a balanced digital environment that protects citizens and promotes positive engagement.
He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between regulators, content creators, and platform owners. By working together, he said, Nigeria can establish digital policies that encourage innovation without compromising cultural principles. This approach, he added, would allow the country to harness the benefits of social media while reducing its risks.
Kashifu Inuwa further emphasized that Nigeria’s digital sovereignty must remain a top priority. He believes that every nation should have the power to define what is acceptable within its digital ecosystem. To achieve this, NITDA continues to strengthen its partnerships with other government agencies to enforce existing laws and introduce forward-thinking regulations that reflect Nigeria’s digital aspirations.
Moreover, he urged young Nigerians to use digital platforms responsibly. He encouraged creators to produce meaningful content that promotes learning, creativity, and national pride. By doing so, they can shape online narratives that reflect Nigeria’s diverse culture and vibrant spirit.
Kashifu Inuwa’s statement comes at a time when governments worldwide are reassessing their relationships with major tech companies. His remarks add momentum to Nigeria’s broader efforts to establish stronger digital governance while safeguarding freedom of expression.
In closing, he reaffirmed NITDA’s commitment to building a secure, inclusive, and culturally conscious digital economy. He noted that the agency’s goal is to protect Nigeria’s interests, ensure fair play among global platforms, and empower citizens to thrive in the digital age.
Through his leadership, Kashifu Inuwa continues to champion a vision of technological progress rooted in respect, accountability, and national identity — ensuring Nigeria’s digital future remains both innovative and proudly Nigerian.
