Niger’s military government is proposing new regulations that require licensing for social media groups with over 50 members. The initiative aims to curb misinformation and harmful content while claiming to protect freedom of expression. Minister Sidi Mohamed Raliou highlights the growing misuse of these platforms, especially following the recent political upheaval.
Niger’s military government has announced plans to implement new regulations concerning social media usage within the country. These proposed rules mandate that social media groups with 50 or more members obtain a government license to operate. The objective of the government is to collaborate with other nations that have enacted similar social media controls.
During an interview on national television, Niger’s Minister of Communication, Sidi Mohamed Raliou, emphasized that social media platforms are frequently misused for commercial gain and harmful activities. Raliou asserted, “When people create large groups for business, politics, or activism, these spaces should be regulated like any other public association.”
In terms of social media trends, as of 2024, Niger hosts approximately 4.69 million internet users, with 611.1 thousand actively engaged on social media. The country’s internet penetration rate stands at 16.9%, and there are around 16.46 million active cellular mobile connections, indicating significant internet access driven by smartphone usage.
WhatsApp is the most utilized social media platform in Niger, followed by Facebook, which is primarily accessed by literate users. However, the increasing use of these platforms has resulted in a rise in misinformation, particularly after the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum in 2023, contributing to Niger becoming a hub for disinformation.
Minister Raliou expressed his concerns regarding the exploitation of social media for financial purposes that might not always be legitimate. He noted, “These platforms have become a lucrative business for some and a subversive tool against regimes for others,” highlighting the need for regulation as these groups become official entities requiring oversight.
Furthermore, Raliou reassured the public that the government intends to maintain freedom of speech amidst these regulations. He affirmed that the forthcoming rules aim to protect citizens from disinformation and online threats rather than infringe upon individual liberties. He expressed the government’s commitment to share clear plans regarding the regulation soon.
The Nigerian military government seeks to regulate social media use through new licensing requirements for larger groups, citing concerns over misinformation and exploitation of these platforms. Minister Sidi Mohamed Raliou emphasizes the necessity of oversight while assuring that freedom of expression will be preserved. With rising internet use in Niger, the government aims to mitigate the spread of harmful content while collaborating with other nations with established regulations.
Original Source: africa.businessinsider.com
