The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has urged President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize the passing of the Digital Rights and Freedoms Bill in order to protect citizens’ privacy and prevent the abuse of personal data.
In a press conference held on Thursday, CITAD’s program assistant, Hajia Zainab Usman, noted that the digital space in Nigeria is facing numerous challenges that negatively impact the digital rights of Nigerian citizens.
According to Usman, the increasing use of digital technologies in Nigeria has posed more risks for people who become victims of cyber threats and attacks.
“The president-elect should ensure that Nigerians have the right to access and share information freely online without censorship, intimidation, or harassment,” she emphasized.
She further called on the 10th National Assembly to prioritize the speedy passage of the Digital Rights and Freedoms Bill, as it would enable the country to have a comprehensive data protection system.
Usman also highlighted the need for the incoming administration to prioritize strengthening cybersecurity measures to ensure the safety and security of citizens’ online activities and prevent cybercrime.
She added that digital literacy is another aspect that the incoming administration should focus on, as there is a significant digital divide in Nigeria, with many people lacking basic digital literacy skills.
CITAD identified several challenges citizens are facing as far as digital rights are concerned, including content takedown and censorship.
Usman noted that there have been many reported cases of government censorship and takedown of content on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram without any justification or order from a competent court.
Another challenge is internet shutdowns, which have occurred in Nigeria, jeopardizing citizens’ lives and businesses and denying them their freedom of expression and association on these platforms.
CITAD believes that if the incoming administration considers and implements these actions, the country’s digital space will become more open, free, and secure for all citizens, which will in turn provide better investment in the country’s digital space by both citizens and foreign investors.
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