Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has issued a stern warning to Nigerian authorities, threatening to suspend its social media services in the country over what it describes as “unrealistic” regulatory demands and a cumulative fine of $290 million imposed by three federal agencies.
Court documents reviewed by the BBC and made available to ireport247new.com reveal that Meta’s threat follows a failed legal appeal to overturn the hefty penalties. The Federal High Court in Abuja, in April 2025, upheld the sanctions and reaffirmed the payment deadline of June 30, 2025. The judgment has sent shockwaves across Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, with many businesses and users expressing concerns over potential disruptions.
The conflict dates back to July 2024 when the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) accused Meta of violating Nigeria’s consumer protection and data privacy laws. According to the FCCPC, Meta’s data-sharing practices through Facebook and WhatsApp allegedly denied Nigerian users full control over their personal information, shared data without obtaining explicit consent, and abused its dominant position in the social media market.
Acting Executive Chairman of the FCCPC, Adamu Abdullahi, stated that Meta’s operations were marked by “invasive practices” but did not disclose specific examples. The agency insists that Meta must reform its practices or exit the Nigerian market altogether.
The National Data Protection Commission (NDPC) is also a central player in the dispute. It has imposed strict compliance measures on Meta, including a controversial requirement for prior approval of all cross-border data transfers involving Nigerian users. Another contentious directive demands that Meta incorporate a visible icon on its platforms that links to government-approved educational videos detailing the risks of manipulative data practices.
Meta, in its court filings, described these demands as impractical, asserting that the NDPC’s conditions are not only technically infeasible but also inconsistent with the broader framework of Nigeria’s data protection legislation.
“Failure to comply may force the applicant to effectively shut down Facebook and Instagram services in Nigeria to mitigate the risk of enforcement measures,” Meta said, adding that the decision, while drastic, may be the only viable option to avoid further legal and financial exposure.
This standoff has raised alarms across Nigeria, where Facebook remains the most widely used social media platform, with millions of active users. From political campaigners and influencers to SMEs and startups, many depend on Meta’s platforms for outreach, marketing, customer engagement, and revenue generation.
Experts warn that a shutdown could deal a significant blow to Nigeria’s digital economy. According to industry analysts, small businesses that rely on Facebook and Instagram for daily operations would be hardest hit, potentially leading to loss of income, reduced customer reach, and disrupted service delivery.
Digital rights advocates have also weighed in, urging both Meta and Nigerian authorities to seek a middle ground. “Data protection is critical, but enforcement must be balanced with innovation and access,” said Akin Alade, a Lagos-based tech policy expert. “Nigeria must not stifle platforms that empower millions economically.”
Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring global tech giants respect local laws. A senior official at the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that while discussions are ongoing, the enforcement of data protection and consumer rights remains non-negotiable.
In recent years, global scrutiny over data privacy has intensified, and Nigeria has taken steps to align with international standards. However, the Meta case underscores the challenges of implementing robust regulatory frameworks without alienating major tech investors.
As the June 30 deadline approaches, stakeholders across the digital space are watching closely. For now, the fate of Facebook and Instagram in Nigeria hangs in the balance.