Wike Aide Calls for Social Media NIN and ID Regulation in Nigeria

Digital Policy Desk, IDNN

Proposal for Social Media Regulation in Nigeria

Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, has urged the Federal Government to introduce stricter rules for social media account creation.

In a statement posted on X, Olayinka suggested that every account holder should be required to provide both a National Identification Number (NIN) and a valid government-issued ID, such as a passport, voter’s card, or driver’s licence.

“These two should be compulsory to open and operate social media accounts. It will reduce misinformation and increase accountability,” Olayinka said.

Digital Accountability Push

Nigeria already mandates NIN for telecommunications and banking. Advocates of tighter digital policy argue that extending the requirement to social media aligns with the country’s existing identity framework, making it harder for anonymous accounts and bots to spread misinformation.

Analysts note, however, that critics may view such regulation as a threat to free expression, especially in a politically charged environment.

Global and Local Parallels

Olayinka pointed out that the system would mirror how verified identities strengthen accountability in sectors like finance. “If tied to NIN, social media would no longer be a playground for faceless misinformation,” he argued.

Digital policy experts say the debate over social media regulation in Nigeria reflects wider global conversations about balancing free speech with online safety and accountability.

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