Nigeria’s Clash with Meta: A New Chapter Unfolding
The ongoing battle between Nigeria and Meta over data privacy and consumer rights took a significant turn in April 2025. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) upheld a hefty $220 million fine against the tech giant, alleging violations of data protection and consumer rights laws.
The FCCPC stood firm on its stance that Meta, the parent company of popular platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, had infringed upon Nigerian users’ rights by not allowing them to control their personal data, sharing Nigerian user data without consent, discriminating against Nigerian users, and imposing unfair privacy policies due to their dominant market position.
As a result, Meta was ordered to pay the $220 million fine within 60 days, adding to fines imposed by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), totaling Meta’s liability to $290 million.
In response, Meta threatened to pull out its services from Nigeria, citing unrealistic demands regarding data privacy and criticizing the FCCPC’s investigation process. However, the FCCPC dismissed Meta’s withdrawal threat as a strategic move to sway public opinion and pressure the regulator to reconsider its decision.
The 60-day deadline for Meta to pay the fine passed in June 2025, yet Meta services are still operational in Nigeria. It remains unclear whether Meta has settled its financial obligations to the regulator or is pursuing legal avenues to challenge the penalties.
When approached for updates, the FCCPC declined to provide further information, stating that an official announcement would be made when necessary. Meta did not respond to requests for comments from Techpoint Africa.
Looking ahead, if Meta fails to comply with the fine payment, the FCCPC may explore legal avenues or lobby the Nigerian government to suspend Meta’s services in the country. Despite Meta’s threats to exit Nigeria, the company remains legally bound to fulfill its obligations, even if it chooses to withdraw its services.
Meta’s track record in other regions, such as the US and Europe, where it faced hefty fines and legal challenges, suggests that the company may opt to appeal the penalties in Nigeria. This strategy could lead to a prolonged legal process, similar to previous instances.
While some analysts speculate that Meta might follow through on its exit threat if the FCCPC remains resolute, the company’s history of similar situations in other markets hints that it is unlikely to sever ties with its largest market, Nigeria.
The ongoing saga between Nigeria and Meta underscores the complexities of regulating tech giants in the digital age, highlighting the importance of safeguarding user data and upholding consumer rights in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
