Nigeria’s Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has launched a new initiative with Meta aimed at strengthening data protection governance and improving safeguards for personal data across the country’s digital ecosystem.
The programme, known as the Meta-Supported Initiative for Data Protection (M-SIDP), was unveiled on Monday and is designed to enhance regulatory frameworks, promote safer data practices and build stronger accountability mechanisms for data controllers and processors.
According to the NDPC, the initiative is part of a broader effort to reinforce the implementation of Nigeria’s Data Protection Act, 2023, as well as related regulatory guidelines governing digital privacy and cybersecurity.
The commission said the programme follows the conclusion of an investigation into data processing practices by Meta Platforms Inc., which was resolved through a court-approved settlement in 2025.
Under the settlement agreement, Meta committed to supporting a two-year public-facing programme focused on data protection awareness, governance reforms and capacity building within Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
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The NDPC said the initiative is structured around three key pillars — governance, research and development — and is intended to create long-term safeguards for data subjects while strengthening institutional capacity.
“This initiative aims to foster safety and sustainability mechanisms for the ecosystem and technology sector,” the commission said in a statement issued by its media unit.
It added that the programme does not limit the commission’s statutory powers to regulate data processing activities in Nigeria under existing laws.
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“Nothing in this settlement limits the commission’s independent statutory powers as we continue to exercise our regulatory mandate,” NDPC said.
The commission also pledged to provide periodic updates on the implementation of the programme and called on stakeholders in both the public and private sectors to support efforts to build a more secure digital environment.
Nigeria has seen growing concerns over data privacy and cybersecurity, with an increasing number of reported breaches affecting both government and private sector institutions.
Recent incidents have included alleged cyber intrusions involving organisations such as Remita Payment Service Limited, Sterling Bank, the Corporate Affairs Commission and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The NDPC said it is actively investigating several of these incidents, although it has not yet publicly disclosed the findings of its inquiries.
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has also proposed the creation of a ministerial advisory council to strengthen coordination on cybersecurity policy and response mechanisms.
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Officials say the proposed council would help improve collaboration between government agencies and the private sector in addressing rising cyber threats targeting critical information systems.
Analysts say the launch of the M-SIDP reflects Nigeria’s growing focus on digital governance as internet penetration, digital payments and online services continue to expand rapidly across the country.
They add that effective data protection frameworks will be key to building trust in the digital economy, particularly as concerns over data misuse, breaches and cybercrime intensify.
With major global tech firms increasingly operating in Africa’s largest economy, regulators are expected to tighten oversight while also seeking partnerships that support compliance, capacity building and digital security standards.
