Google, Microsoft, TikTok Shut Down 13.5 Million Nigerian Accounts in Online Safety Crackdown

Abuja, Nigeria – August 21, 2025

Global tech companies Google, Microsoft, and TikTok have taken joint action to block more than 13.5 million accounts in Nigeria as part of a sweeping effort to improve digital safety and reduce harmful content across their platforms.

The move was revealed during a recent public hearing held by Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on Digital Media and Online Safety. Representatives from the tech firms explained that the blocked accounts were flagged for violating community standards related to cybercrime, misinformation, hate speech, and impersonation.

“These actions are part of our broader commitment to make the internet safer for everyone,” said Google’s Public Policy Manager for West Africa, Titi Akinsanmi. “We understand the unique risks faced by users in Nigeria and are working closely with local partners to respond effectively.”

Microsoft and TikTok echoed similar sentiments, noting that artificial intelligence and human moderation teams were used to identify harmful activity and remove or block suspicious accounts. Many of the blocked profiles were reportedly tied to scams, coordinated disinformation efforts, or abusive behavior.

Digital rights groups have welcomed the move but urged the tech companies to be more transparent about how decisions are made and to ensure that innocent users are not wrongly affected. “It’s important that safety measures don’t turn into digital censorship,” said Nkem Opara, a media rights advocate based in Lagos.

The Nigerian government has also praised the effort but emphasized the need for continued cooperation between tech companies and national regulators to protect users — especially young people — from online threats.

Analysts say the large number of blocked accounts reflects both the scale of Nigeria’s online population and the growing challenge of moderating content in a rapidly evolving digital space.

As digital platforms continue to shape communication and commerce in Nigeria, experts stress the importance of promoting safe, open, and inclusive online spaces — where users are protected but also empowered to express themselves freely.