Meta and NDPC Settle Landmark $32.8 Million Data Privacy Dispute in Nigeria
In a significant development for digital governance and corporate accountability in Africa, tech giant Meta and the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) have reached an out-of-court settlement regarding their high-profile $32.8 million data privacy dispute. This unexpected agreement signals a potential swift resolution to a case that has garnered considerable attention, highlighting Nigeria’s growing commitment to upholding its national data protection laws. The move is widely seen as a positive step towards fostering a more regulated and secure digital environment for Nigerian users and the broader African tech ecosystem.
Unpacking the NDPC’s Data Protection Allegations Against Meta
The dispute originated when the NDPC levied a substantial $32.8 million fine against Meta, the parent company of popular platforms like Facebook and Instagram, for alleged breaches of Nigeria’s data privacy regulations. According to the commission’s findings in February 2025, Meta was accused of multiple violations. These included processing the personal data of Nigerians without securing proper consent, employing behavioral advertising techniques that unfairly targeted users, and flouting rules pertaining to the cross-border transfer of data. Furthermore, Meta faced criticism for failing to submit a mandatory audit report and for reportedly handling the data of individuals who were not even registered users of its platforms. These accusations underscore the NDPC’s rigorous stance on protecting digital rights and ensuring companies adhere to strict data protection standards within Nigeria’s burgeoning digital economy.
The decision by Meta and the NDPC to pursue an out-of-court settlement marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s evolving data protection landscape. It underscores the increasing importance of robust data governance and signals that international tech companies operating in Africa must prioritize compliance with local regulations. This resolution, once finalized, is expected to set a precedent for corporate conduct regarding user privacy and data handling across the continent, reinforcing the NDPC’s role in safeguarding the digital rights of Nigerians and promoting responsible data management within the vibrant African tech space.
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