Meta and NDPC Pursue Out-of-Court Settlement in $32.8 Million Data Privacy Dispute
In a significant development for data privacy in Africa’s burgeoning digital landscape, Meta, the parent company behind Facebook and Instagram, has commenced settlement negotiations with the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC). This move aims to resolve an ongoing dispute over a substantial $32.8 million fine imposed on the tech giant for alleged breaches of the Nigerian Data Protection Act. The commencement of these out-of-court discussions signals a potential amicable resolution to a case that underscores the growing scrutiny of global tech companies’ data handling practices within the African market, particularly on a day when a court ruling on preliminary objections was anticipated.
Unpacking the Allegations and Meta’s Stance
The considerable financial penalty, issued in February 2025 by the Nigerian Data Protection Commission, followed a thorough investigation that concluded Meta had violated several provisions of the Nigerian Data Protection Act. The NDPC’s findings highlighted multiple infractions, including the processing of Nigerian users’ personal data without proper consent, engaging in targeted behavioural advertising without due authorization, and non-compliance with crucial cross-border data rules. Furthermore, the commission faulted Meta for failing to submit a mandated compliance audit and for reportedly handling the data of individuals who were not even direct users of its platforms. In response to these grave findings, the NDPC not only levied the $32.8 million fine but also issued eight specific corrective orders designed to compel Meta into rectifying its data practices. However, Meta vehemently rejected the commission’s decision, asserting that it was unfairly denied a fair hearing and was not provided adequate notice or sufficient opportunity to present its defense, signaling a fundamental disagreement over due process.
The initiation of settlement talks between Meta and the NDPC represents a pivotal moment for data protection and regulatory enforcement in the African tech ecosystem. While the specific terms of a potential settlement remain confidential, this development underscores the increasing assertiveness of African regulatory bodies in holding international tech giants accountable for their data privacy obligations. For millions of Nigerian internet users, this case highlights the critical importance of robust data protection measures and the power of regulatory oversight to safeguard personal information in the digital age, setting a precedent for responsible data governance across the continent.
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