Meta Moves to Settle $32.8m Data Fine in Nigeria

Meta Platforms Inc. may soon close a major regulatory battle in Nigeria as both the company and the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) move toward a settlement over a $32.8 million fine. The fine, issued in February 2025, accused Meta of violating Nigeria’s Data Protection Act by collecting and transferring user data without proper consent.

The NDPC alleged that Meta’s behavioural advertising practices on Facebook and Instagram breached national privacy laws, prompting the regulator to demand immediate compliance reforms. Under the directive, Meta was ordered to update its privacy terms, secure user consent before using behavioural ads, conduct a detailed data privacy impact review, and stop transferring data abroad without official approval.

Settlement Talks Gain Momentum

During a court session on Friday, 3 October 2025, Meta’s legal representative, Fred Onwuobia, confirmed that both parties were close to a resolution. He noted that a court ruling at this stage could interrupt the negotiation process.

Representing the NDPC, Adeola Adedipe supported Meta’s submission, saying discussions had reached an advanced stage. Following these updates, Justice James Omotosho postponed the hearing until 31 October 2025, allowing time for a possible final settlement or ruling.

A Pattern of Regulatory Clashes

This case marks one of several high-profile disputes Meta has faced with Nigerian regulators in recent years. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) had earlier imposed a hefty $220 million fine on the tech giant, warning it could affect Meta’s operations in the country.

Similarly, the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) sanctioned Meta with an additional $37.5 million penalty for alleged violations in digital advertising standards. Both matters are still pending resolution.

The ongoing cases highlight growing scrutiny of global tech companies operating in Nigeria. Analysts say the NDPC settlement could serve as a test case for how foreign firms adjust to stricter data protection laws across Africa.