The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has introduced dComms, a decentralised social media platform designed to strengthen online privacy and give users greater control over their personal data.
Buhari Abba, dComms Project Lead at CITAD, announced the initiative on Wednesday during a press conference in Dutse on digital rights, data protection and online privacy.
Abba said growing concerns over data breaches, misuse of personal information and the dominance of major technology companies had highlighted the need for alternative digital platforms.
According to him, Nigerians increasingly face risks associated with the collection, storage and use of sensitive information, including National Identification Numbers (NIN), Bank Verification Numbers (BVN), bank details and other personal records.
“CITAD is particularly concerned that the dominance of a few Big Tech companies over the global digital space has created an ecosystem where users have limited control over their data, online interactions and the systems through which they communicate,” he said.
Abba noted that mainstream platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and X play major roles in digital communication, but their data-driven business models have continued to raise concerns about privacy, freedom of expression and consumer protection.
He said CITAD, with support from the Association for Progressive Communications, was promoting dComms as an alternative that provides users and communities with greater control over their digital interactions.
Unlike conventional social media platforms controlled largely by individual companies, dComms operates within a decentralised system and is connected to the wider Fediverse, allowing compatible platforms to communicate without depending on a single technology provider.
Abba said CITAD had also taken its dComms and digital rights awareness campaigns to universities, colleges and polytechnics across Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa and Bauchi states, supported by radio and other public sensitisation programmes.
“Our objective is not simply to introduce another social media platform, but to expand the choices available to Nigerians and encourage a digital environment where users have greater control over their personal information, digital identities and online interactions,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to make informed choices about digital platforms and demand greater accountability from organisations handling their personal information.
Abba also called on government institutions, technology companies, civil society organisations and educational institutions to promote a digital ecosystem built around privacy, transparency, accountability and users’ rights.
“Digital transformation should not come at the expense of citizens’ privacy and fundamental rights,” he added.
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