The Federal Government has announced its takeover of the regulation of social media advertising in Nigeria. This development aims to establish a structured framework for digital marketing, ensuring that content shared by influencers and brands adheres to ethical and legal standards. The move follows concerns over misleading advertisements, unverified claims, and the exploitation of online audiences.
According to authorities, all advertisements on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube must now be vetted and approved in line with national advertising codes. Influencers and digital marketers will be required to register and obtain licenses before promoting products or services. Regulatory agencies such as the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) will play a central role in enforcement.
While some stakeholders welcome the move as a step towards transparency and consumer protection, others fear it may stifle creativity and impose unnecessary restrictions on content creators. The government has assured the public that the new regulations are not aimed at censorship but at ensuring accountability in the rapidly expanding digital economy.