The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has introduced dComms, a decentralised and privacy-focused social platform, as an alternative to mainstream social media amid growing concerns over data breaches and the misuse of personal information.
Buhari Abba, dComms Project Lead at CITAD, made the disclosure Wednesday at a press conference in Dutse, Jigawa State, on digital rights, data protection and online privacy.
Abba said the dominance of a few technology companies over the digital space had raised concerns about users’ control over their personal information and online interactions.
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He said Nigerians faced increasing risks from the collection, storage and use of sensitive information, including National Identification Numbers, Bank Verification Numbers, bank account 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,” Abba said.
He said platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and X had become major gatekeepers of digital communication, raising concerns about privacy, freedom of expression and consumer protection.
According to Abba, the business models of many mainstream social media platforms rely heavily on the collection, analysis and monetisation of users’ data.
He said CITAD, with support from the Association for Progressive Communications, was promoting dComms to give Nigerians more choices in the digital space.
“Unlike conventional social media platforms where a single company largely controls the platform, its infrastructure and users’ data, dComms operates within a decentralised environment where communities and users can have greater control over their digital interactions,” he said.
Abba said dComms was connected to the wider Fediverse, allowing decentralised platforms to communicate with one another while reducing dependence on a single technology company.
He said CITAD had taken dComms and digital rights awareness activities to universities, colleges and polytechnics in Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa and Bauchi states, alongside 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,” Abba said.
He urged Nigerians to make informed decisions about the platforms they use and demand greater accountability from institutions and technology companies handling their personal data.
Abba also called on government institutions, technology companies, civil society organisations and educational institutions to support a digital ecosystem that prioritises privacy, transparency, accountability and users’ rights.
He said members of the public, students and institutions interested in exploring dComms could access the platform at social.citad.org.ng.
“Digital transformation should not come at the expense of citizens’ privacy and fundamental rights,” he said.
