A Nigerian tribunal has upheld a $220 million fine imposed on Meta Platforms Inc. by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for violations of the country’s consumer protection and data privacy laws. The decision, announced on April 25, 2025, follows a comprehensive 38-month investigation that concluded Meta engaged in discriminatory, exploitative, and unauthorized data practices toward Nigerian users.

(Nigerian tribunal upholds $220 million fine against Meta for violating consumer, data laws, Nigeria fines Meta $220 million for violating consumer, data laws | Nation)

Background of the Case

The FCCPC initiated its probe in May 2021, prompted by concerns over Meta’s handling of user data across its platforms, including Facebook and WhatsApp.

The investigation, conducted in collaboration with Nigeria’s Data Protection Commission, found that Meta had: (Nigeria fines Meta $220 million for violating data protection and consumer rights laws | AP News, Nigeria fines Meta $220 million for violating consumer, data laws).

• Collected and shared Nigerian users’ personal data without explicit consent.

• Implemented privacy policies that denied users control over their data.

• Engaged in discriminatory practices, treating Nigerian users less favorably than those in other jurisdictions with similar regulations.

Abused its market dominance by imposing exploitative terms and conditions.

(Nigeria fines Meta $220m for violating consumer, data laws – The East African, Nigeria fines Meta $220 million for violating consumer, data laws, Nigeria fines Meta $220 million for violating consumer, data laws | Nation).

Despite providing some documents and engaging with the FCCPC, Meta failed to address the core issues identified during the investigation.

The FCCPC concluded that Meta’s actions constituted multiple and repeated infringements of Nigerian data protection laws.

As a result, the commission issued a final order mandating Meta to comply with local laws and cease the exploitation of Nigerian consumers .

(Nigeria fines Meta $220 million for violating consumer, data laws, Nigeria fines Meta $220 million for violating consumer, data laws | Nation, Nigeria fines Meta $220 million for violating data protection and consumer rights laws | AP News).

Tribunal’s Ruling

The Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, upon reviewing the evidence and Meta’s appeal, upheld the FCCPC’s decision.

The tribunal emphasized that Meta had ample opportunity to present its case but failed to provide sufficient justification for its actions.

Consequently, the $220 million fine remains in effect, marking a significant enforcement of Nigeria’s digital and consumer rights regulations . (Nigerian tribunal upholds $220 million fine against Meta for violating consumer, data laws)

Implications for Meta and Nigeria

This ruling underscores Nigeria’s commitment to enforcing its data protection laws and holding multinational corporations accountable for violations.

For Meta, the fine serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to local regulations, especially in regions with rapidly growing digital economies.

The case also highlights the increasing scrutiny that tech giants face globally regarding data privacy and consumer rights.

Similar actions have been taken against Meta in other countries, reflecting a broader trend toward stricter enforcement of data protection laws.

In response to the ruling, Meta has indicated its intention to review its data handling practices and engage more proactively with regulatory authorities in Nigeria.

The company is expected to implement changes to its policies to ensure compliance with Nigerian laws and to restore trust among its Nigerian user base.

The Nigerian tribunal’s decision to uphold the $220 million fine against Meta marks a pivotal moment in the country’s digital regulatory landscape.

It serves as a clear message to multinational corporations operating in Nigeria that adherence to local consumer protection and data privacy laws is not optional.

As Nigeria continues to strengthen its regulatory frameworks, companies must prioritize compliance to avoid legal repercussions and maintain their operations in the country. (Nigerian tribunal upholds $220 million fine against Meta for violating consumer, data laws)