Nigeria’s Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has imposed a 766 million naira ($501,340) fine on Multichoice Nigeria, operator of DSTV and GOTV, for breaching the country’s data protection laws. The penalty follows a year-long investigation into alleged privacy violations, including unlawful processing and cross-border transfer of subscribers’ personal data.
According to Babatunde Bamigboye, NDPC’s head of legal, Multichoice’s data practices were found to be “intrusive, unfair, and disproportionate,” affecting not only customers but also their contacts. The pay-TV giant, which has faced regulatory scrutiny over pricing and tax disputes in recent years, failed to adequately address compliance issues despite being directed to implement corrective measures.
The fine marks Nigeria’s latest enforcement action under its data protection regulations as authorities ramp up oversight of digital privacy. Multichoice, Africa’s largest pay-TV provider, has yet to comment on the penalty. The company continues to operate in Nigeria amid ongoing tensions with regulators over service pricing and compliance matters.
This development comes as African nations increasingly assert data sovereignty, with Nigeria positioning itself as a regional leader in digital rights enforcement. The NDPC’s action signals stricter monitoring of multinational firms operating in the country’s growing digital economy. ($1 = 1,528 naira)