In response to Meta’s threat to withdraw its services from Nigeria, some social media users are calling for the development of indigenous platforms.
Meta, the company behind Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, recently indicated it might shut down operations in Nigeria after a tribunal upheld a $220 million fine imposed in July 2024.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Sunday, Nigerians highlighted the need for local alternatives, saying dependence on foreign-owned platforms exposes the country to risks.
Moses Atuegwu, a WhatsApp user, criticized Meta’s threat, calling it unfair given the company’s large user base in Nigeria.
“It’s alarming that we remain at the mercy of foreign platforms,” Atuegwu said. “We need our own local social media channels to reduce this dependency and take control of our digital space.”
Pearl Adekunle, who uses WhatsApp and Instagram, said local platforms could improve content oversight and benefit the tech sector.
“Countries like China and Russia have their own platforms, which helps with both innovation and data protection. Nigeria should follow suit,” she noted.
Esther Indiana-Obong, a Facebook user, shared similar views, arguing that homegrown platforms could increase competition and foster innovation.
“We need to stop leaning so heavily on foreign brands,” she said. “An indigenous platform would create room for growth and self-reliance.”
Aminu Zakari added that local platforms might also simplify government efforts to regulate content and safeguard user data.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) dismissed Meta’s threat, saying the company is still responsible for the fine and cannot avoid it by threatening to exit.
