By The Midtown Times Tech Desk
Technology – Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is preparing to settle a $32.8 million data privacy fine with the Nigerian government, a move that underscores Africa’s growing assertiveness in regulating Big Tech.
The fine, imposed initially by Nigeria’s Data Protection Commission (NDPC) in February 2025, accused Meta of several violations under the Nigeria Data Protection Act. Authorities alleged that Meta used Nigerian users’ data for behavioral advertising without proper consent, processed data belonging to non-users, failed to submit mandatory compliance reports, and transferred local user data abroad without official authorization.
After initially contesting the decision, Meta has now opted for an out-of-court settlement expected to be finalized by late October 2025. The agreement represents a strategic shift for the tech giant, signaling a willingness to align with Nigeria’s tightening regulatory framework.
As part of the settlement, the NDPC has directed Meta to revise its privacy policies, conduct localized data protection assessments, and obtain explicit user consent for all targeted advertising efforts. Analysts say this could reshape how multinational tech companies handle data across emerging African markets.
Nigeria’s move against Meta follows a broader trend across the continent, where governments are reinforcing digital sovereignty and pushing for greater transparency and accountability from global platforms. In recent months, the NDPC has also levied multi-million-dollar penalties against other international tech firms for similar privacy breaches.
Industry experts believe this case could serve as a landmark precedent for digital rights enforcement in Africa, potentially influencing future regulatory frameworks in countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Ghana.
For Meta, the settlement marks not just a financial hit but also a test of its ability to adapt to evolving global data protection norms. The company’s response in Nigeria may determine how it navigates future privacy challenges in rapidly expanding digital markets worldwide.
By the Midtown Times Tech Desk
