Nigeria Partners with Meta to Launch Major New Data Protection Initiative

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has officially launched a new two-year program called the Meta-Supported Initiatives for Data Protection (M-SIDP).

This strategic initiative focuses on strengthening privacy safeguards and protecting the personal information of internet users across Nigeria.

The program was created as part of a 2025 court-approved settlement following an official investigation by the Commission into Meta’s data processing practices in the country.

Under this agreement, Meta has committed to fully supporting and funding these public-facing privacy measures.

NDPC Head of Media, Itunu Dosekun in a statement notes that, the program is built around four key areas that match Nigeria’s current data protection laws. First, it will fund research and improve official governance.

Second, it will develop better safety features for everyday technology. Third, it will provide advanced training for local Data Protection Officers (DPOs) and compliance organizations.

Finally, the initiative will launch major public awareness campaigns to teach citizens about their privacy rights, with a special focus on protecting children, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups.

While Meta is actively backing this nationwide rollout, Nigerian regulators have made it clear that the tech giant does not get a free pass.

The NDPC explicitly retains its full, independent legal powers to monitor, investigate, and regulate all data processing activities in Nigeria.

The Commission plans to share regular public updates on the program’s progress and is calling on tech companies, businesses, and citizens to support the initiative in building a more secure and accountable digital economy