TikTok denies restricting access in Northern Nigeria as users report weeks of disruption

By Ogundele Eniola

TikTok has denied imposing restrictions on its platform in parts of northern Nigeria after users reported difficulties accessing videos, uploading content and using the service normally for several weeks.

The platform’s Head of Communications for Sub-Saharan Africa, Keagile Makgoba, said the disruption was not implemented by TikTok and that the company was engaging relevant stakeholders to resolve the problem.

The response follows complaints from users in Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi and Sokoto states, where some have reportedly experienced difficulties accessing the platform since September 14. Some affected users said they could access TikTok only by using virtual private networks.

TikTok acknowledged awareness of the reports but did not identify the stakeholders involved in its discussions, disclose the cause of the disruption or provide a timeline for restoring normal access.

The reported difficulties have raised concerns about digital access, freedom of expression and the livelihoods of Nigerians who depend on social media for income.

For many content creators, small businesses and online vendors, TikTok serves as a marketing channel for reaching customers, promoting products and building an audience. Extended disruptions can limit their visibility and potentially affect sales and advertising opportunities.

The situation has also attracted the attention of civil society organisations, which have called for an investigation into the cause of the access problems.

A coalition of 12 organisations, including Paradigm Initiative, Media Rights Agenda and the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development, urged the Nigerian Communications Commission and other relevant authorities to establish what caused the disruption and make their findings public.

The groups argued that users should receive clear information about any restrictions affecting access to digital platforms, particularly where the disruption may affect communication, information access and commercial activity.

TikTok’s denial does not, by itself, establish the cause of the reported difficulties. Technical problems, network-level issues or other factors would need to be investigated before responsibility could be determined.

The incident underscores the growing importance of social media access to Nigeria’s digital economy, where creators and small businesses increasingly depend on online platforms to reach audiences beyond their immediate communities.

As discussions continue, users and civil society groups are seeking clarification from the relevant authorities and telecommunications stakeholders.