Meta and NDPC Settle Data Privacy Dispute Out of Court
The Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and Meta Platforms Inc. have reached an out-of-court settlement concerning a significant data privacy dispute that highlights the growing importance of data protection regulations in Africa. This agreement resolves a $32.8 million fine imposed by the NDPC against Meta in February 2025, marking a crucial moment in the enforcement of Nigeria’s Data Protection Act.
The Genesis of the Data Privacy Battle
The NDPC had penalized Meta for alleged breaches of the Data Protection Act. Specifically, the commission cited Meta’s practice of behavioral advertising on Facebook and Instagram, claiming the company failed to secure explicit consent from Nigerian users before transferring their personal data outside of Nigeria. Besides the financial penalty, the NDPC had instructed Meta to overhaul its privacy protocols. This included the demand to obtain user consent for behavioral advertising, undertake a data privacy impact assessment, and halt the unauthorized transfer of user data beyond Nigerian borders. Meta, however, contested the NDPC’s findings and the process followed, claiming a lack of due process and a fair hearing. Fred Onwuobia, Meta’s legal representative, disclosed on Friday, October 3, 2025, that an out-of-court settlement had been reached. The details of the agreement and any potential changes to Meta’s data handling practices within Nigeria remained undisclosed at the time of the announcement.
The resolution underscores the increasing scrutiny of data practices by regulatory bodies like the NDPC, signaling a shift towards stricter data protection compliance across the African tech landscape.
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