A new report has identified Twitter (X) as the leading platform for online harm in Nigeria, with 34% of users reporting experiences of cyberbullying, misinformation, and harassment.
Shirley Ewang, Advocacy Lead at Gatefield, disclosed this on Friday in Abuja while presenting the State of Online Harms in Nigeria report, conducted by Gatefield with support from Luminate. The study, which surveyed over 500 Nigerians, found that women and young adults aged 25–34 were most affected, with 58% experiencing online abuse.
Despite frequent reports of harmful content, 31% of Nigerians believe such content is never removed, raising concerns over content moderation by major tech companies. The report ranked Twitter (X) as the worst platform for online harm, followed by Facebook (29%) and WhatsApp (12%). Instagram was identified as the most responsive, with 26% of users stating it effectively addresses complaints.
Beyond online abuse, misinformation was flagged as Nigeria’s biggest digital threat, with 99% of respondents citing fake news as a major concern. Additionally, 91% believe big tech holds excessive influence over democracy, sparking fears about its role in governance and public opinion.
Experts at the event warned that unchecked misinformation could threaten national security, elections, and public health. Digital rights advocates called for stronger policies to regulate content moderation and hold tech companies accountable.
The report urges immediate action from social media platforms, civil society organisations, and policymakers to create a safer digital environment in Nigeria.
Credit: NAN (Text Excluding Headline)
