The Nigerian Digital Rights and Freedom Bill, designed to protect online human rights and safeguard internet users from violations of their fundamental freedoms, has returned to Parliament for review.

Paradigm Initiative (PIN) has been leading the charge for the adoption of this legislation in Nigeria and similar initiatives across other African nations. Sponsored by Chris Nwonta, the bill - designated as HB 1739 - aims to ensure human rights protections for users of digital platforms in Nigeria.

The Bill, initially submitted to the National Assembly in 2016 and passed by both chambers, was not signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who reportedly chose to reject it.

PIN’s Executive Director, Gbenga Sesan, noted that after the former president declined to sign the Bill into law, a review was undertaken to understand the reasons behind the decision. Subsequently, the Bill was revised for reintroduction to the 9th National Assembly.

He mentioned that the updated version of the Bill includes input from the government, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

Adeboye Adegoke, Senior Manager of Grants and Programmes Strategy at PIN, stated that the organization remains relentless in its commitment to protecting digital rights and promoting inclusion in Nigeria and in all the regions where it operates.

Adeboye emphasized that PIN is dedicated to this objective, ready for the long journey ahead, and determined to see the process through to a successful conclusion.

“PIN remains relentless in pursuing the objective of safeguarding digital rights and inclusion in Nigeria and everywhere we work. When we committed to work on this objective, we prepared for the long haul and we are committed to driving the process to a reasonable conclusion.”

PIN has been leading the charge for the adoption of this vital legislation, and its return to Parliament represents an important step in Nigeria’s progress toward a safer and more inclusive digital landscape that respects and safeguards users' rights.

With support from the Kingdom of The Netherlands, the organization convened stakeholders in Abuja in April as part of the Digital Engagement Series (DiPES) to analyze, review, and discuss the Bill.