Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has indicated that it may discontinue its services in Nigeria if the ongoing conflicts with regulatory authorities are not resolved. The technology giant is facing nearly $300 million in penalties and claims that Nigeria’s data protection requirements are excessive and unrealistic.

This year, at least three government agencies have imposed fines on Meta. The federal competition regulator levied a $220 million fine, the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) issued a penalty of ₦60 billion (approximately $37.5 million), and the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) added another $32.8 million. In total, Meta is now confronted with fines amounting to around $290.3 million.

The crux of the disagreement centers on Nigeria’s stringent data protection regulations. One of the stipulations requires Meta to secure explicit consent from the NDPC before transferring any user data outside the country. In legal documents examined by The Africa Report, Meta contended that these requirements are impractical and stem from a misguided interpretation of data privacy laws.

Additionally, the NDPC has instructed Meta to include a visible link on its platforms for Nigerian users that directs them to educational material regarding the dangers of manipulative and unfair data practices. These videos will be produced in partnership with approved NGOs and academic institutions.

Meta asserts that these demands impose an unreasonable strain on its operations in Nigeria. “The applicant (Meta) may be compelled to effectively shut down Facebook and Instagram services in Nigeria,” Meta noted in its submissions, highlighting the risk of enforcement actions due to non-compliance.

This is not the first instance of Meta encountering issues with Nigerian authorities. In 2024, WhatsApp—also owned by Meta—threatened to exit the country after receiving a $220 million fine. Although the company appealed, the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal upheld the fine and added $35,000 in investigative costs. Meta is currently engaged in related legal disputes across three federal courts.

Source: Techpoint Africa