The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has clarified that the $32.8 million penalty imposed on Meta Platforms Inc. was not completely cancelled, contrary to reports circulating online.
According to the commission, the financial penalty was reduced following a negotiated settlement between both parties, with the agreement also including new compliance measures and public awareness initiatives.
The NDPC explained that Meta would still make certain payments to the Nigerian government as part of the settlement, although the exact figure has not been publicly disclosed.
The clarification follows widespread reports suggesting that the fine had been quietly waived, prompting questions about the country’s commitment to enforcing digital privacy regulations.
Officials say the decision was aimed at balancing regulatory enforcement with long-term reforms capable of improving compliance and strengthening data protection awareness among digital platforms operating in Nigeria.
The development highlights Nigeria’s growing focus on data privacy regulation as digital activities and online platform usage continue to expand across the country.