Meta Settles USD 32.8M Data Fine With Nigerian Regulator
Meta and the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) have reached an agreement to settle a long-standing dispute over a USD 32.8 million fine. The penalty marked a key test of the Nigerian Data Protection Act 2023 (NDPR) and the country's stance on safeguarding citizens' rights.
The dispute began in February 2025 when the NDPC imposed a USD 32.8 million fine on Meta for data protection violations. Meta challenged the decision in Nigerian courts, with both parties eventually agreeing to an out-of-court settlement. The Abuja Federal High Court permitted an adjournment until the end of October to finalize the deal.
Tensions rose in 2024-2025 as Meta faced a total of USD 290 million in fines from Nigerian regulators for various violations. In response, WhatsApp threatened to exit the Nigerian market due to an order from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), straining relations between Meta and the country. The FCCPC's corporate affairs director accused Meta of using the threat as a form of blackmail.
The agreement between Meta and the NDPC signals a potential improvement in their relationship. Both parties have exchanged draft terms and are resolved to pursue a settlement, with the dispute's resolution expected by the end of October. This development could help Meta avoid further fines and potential market exits in Nigeria.
