Social media platforms frequently update their policies to adapt to changing user needs, technologies, and regulatory environments. For Nigerian content creators, staying updated on these policy changes is critical to avoid penalties and ensure continued monetization and growth. Here are the key policy updates on major platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and what Nigerian creators need to know to stay compliant.

1. Facebook’s Content and Monetization Policy Changes

In recent years, Facebook has introduced new rules and tightened its Partner Monetization Policies. These policies outline the requirements for creators to earn money through the platform and include guidelines on transparency, content originality, and maintaining community standards.

Major Policy Changes:

Content Originality. Facebook now prioritizes original content over reposted or curated material. Pages that rely too heavily on shared content from other sources are at risk of demonetization. Nigerian creators must focus on producing unique content that offers value to their audience.

Branded Content. New guidelines require creators to clearly disclose any paid partnerships or sponsored content using Facebook’s Paid Partnership tag. Failing to do so can result in penalties.

Misinformation and Fake News. Facebook is cracking down on pages that spread misinformation, especially on topics like politics, health, and safety. Creators must be cautious about verifying the accuracy of their content to avoid sanctions.

What Nigerian Creators Should Do:

Regularly check Facebook’s Community Standards and Monetization Policies to stay informed about what’s allowed.
Always disclose paid partnerships or sponsored content.
Focus on creating original content, whether it’s entertainment, educational, or social advocacy.

1. Instagram’s Reels and Video Monetization Updates

Instagram has introduced new monetization tools, such as Reels Play Bonus and Badges in Live, giving creators more ways to earn through their content. However, these tools come with policy updates that affect eligibility and content requirements.

Reels Play Bonus. Instagram now allows eligible creators to earn money based on the performance of their Reels. Creators must meet specific engagement thresholds, and their content must comply with Instagram’s Partner Program Guidelines.

Monetization Eligibility Standards. Instagram updated its policies to ensure that monetized content follows community guidelines, including bans on hate speech, misinformation, and graphic content.

Removal of IGTV. Instagram has merged IGTV and feed videos into a unified Instagram Video feature. All videos, whether short or long-form, are now displayed in the same format, simplifying the experience for users and creators.

What Nigerian Creators Should Do:

Take advantage of Reels for short-form video content, as it is heavily promoted by Instagram’s algorithm.
Ensure all content complies with community standards to avoid demonetization.
Use Instagram’s built-in disclosure tools for sponsored content to maintain transparency.

1. YouTube’s Monetization Policy Changes

YouTube has consistently updated its monetization policies to maintain a high standard of content quality on the platform. The YouTube Partner Program remains the primary way for creators to earn money, but recent changes have added stricter content guidelines.

Updated YPP Eligibility. To join the YPP, creators need to have at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 public watch hours in the last 12 months, or 10 million views on Shorts within 90 days. This change encourages more consistent content creation.

Content for Advertisers. YouTube has introduced stricter rules around what kind of content is suitable for monetization. Videos featuring graphic content, excessive profanity, or controversial topics may be demonetized even if they don’t violate community guidelines.

Shorts Monetization. YouTube has begun monetizing YouTube Shorts, offering a new way for creators to earn from short-form content. However, the content must be original and follow YouTube’s policies to qualify.

What Nigerian Creators Should Do:

Focus on creating consistent, high-quality content to meet the 4,000 watch hours and 1,000 subscribers threshold.
Use YouTube Shorts to engage a younger audience and grow your channel quickly.
Ensure all content is advertiser-friendly to maximize revenue from ads.

1. TikTok’s Creator Fund and Community Guidelines Updates

TikTok has become a favorite platform for Nigerian creators due to its viral potential and engagement rates. However, TikTok has also introduced stricter community guidelines and monetization requirements.

Creator Fund Requirements. To join TikTok’s Creator Fund, creators must have at least 10,000 followers and 100,000 video views in the past 30 days. However, creators must also adhere to TikTok’s community guidelines to remain eligible.

Policy on Misinformation. TikTok has taken a firm stance against the spread of misinformation, particularly in health and political content. Violations can lead to content removal or account suspension.

Intellectual Property and Copyright Violations. TikTok actively scans for content that uses copyrighted music, video clips, or images without proper licensing. Creators must ensure that they only use legally licensed material in their videos.

What Nigerian Creators Should Do:

Stay updated on TikTok’s Community Guidelines and ensure that your content is both engaging and compliant.
Participate in TikTok’s trends and challenges to increase visibility while keeping within policy limits.
Use TikTok’s Music Library or other royalty-free music platforms to avoid copyright issues.

1. Twitter (Now X): New Rules on Paid Partnerships

Since its rebranding to X, Twitter has introduced several updates, including changes to how creators can earn money through subscriptions and Super Follows. Nigerian creators who use X for microblogging or content sharing should be aware of the following:

Paid Partnerships. X now encourages creators to monetize their presence through Super Follows, which allows followers to pay for exclusive content. However, creators must clearly disclose any paid promotions or partnerships.

Community Standards. X continues to tighten its stance on hate speech, misinformation, and harmful content. Violations can lead to demonetization or suspension from the platform.

What Nigerian Creators Should Do:

Take advantage of new features like Super Follows to offer exclusive content to your most dedicated followers.
Monitor your content closely to ensure it follows X’s community guidelines, particularly in sensitive areas like politics or social issues.

Staying up to date with social media policy changes is essential for Nigerian creators to ensure continued monetization and compliance. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok are constantly evolving their rules to maintain content quality and safeguard users. As a creator, it’s important to adapt to these changes by keeping your content fresh, original, and in line with community standards. By doing so, you’ll not only protect your monetization but also grow your audience and credibility.