FG defends $220m fine on Meta over data breaches

The Federal Government has defended its recent decision to impose a $220 million fine on Meta Platforms Inc., citing violations of Nigeria’s data protection laws.

Meta, the U.S.-based tech company that owns Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Messenger, and Threads, is accused of mishandling user data belonging to Nigerian citizens.

Vincent Olatunji, national commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), gave the explanation in Abuja on Friday at a DevsInGovernment training session themed ‘Innovating with Privacy: Building Trust in Government Digital Services.’

Olatunji said the action was taken to ensure that multinational tech companies operate within the legal framework of the country.

“We are not necessarily being punitive. However, any institution that fails to cooperate or comply with our laws will be sanctioned,” he said.

The fine was imposed by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) following a multi-agency investigation into Meta’s handling of user data in Nigeria. Olatunji said the probe involved collaboration between key regulatory bodies to ensure a thorough review of Meta’s data practices.

“We are concerned about how citizens’ data is collected and managed—both within and outside Nigeria,” he said.

“Our goal is to ensure global best practices are adopted while protecting the rights of Nigerians.”

He added that the government is committed to improving data governance, especially as Nigeria continues its transition into a digital economy.

“The future of government is digital, but its success depends on trust—and privacy is the foundation of that trust,” he said.

The DevsInGovernment initiative aims to equip civil servants in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) with the skills to design and implement secure, privacy-focused digital services.

Olatunji reiterated that safeguarding data is both a legal and strategic priority for the government as it works toward building a digital nation centered on the rights and needs of its citizens.

“Deploying trusted digital services is not the government’s responsibility alone. It requires collaboration across the public and private sectors, civil society, and citizens,” he said.

The government’s stance sends a clear message to global tech companies operating in Nigeria: Respect the country’s laws or face consequences.

Olatunji called for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors, civil society, and citizens to build a digital ecosystem that prioritizes transparency and accountability.

“Deploying trusted digital services is not a task for government alone. It requires collective effort,” he said.