In a major step toward enforcing data privacy regulations in Nigeria, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has fined MultiChoice Nigeria—the country’s leading pay-TV operator—a total of ₦766 million for the unauthorized cross-border transfer of personal data belonging to both subscribers and non-subscribers.

The NDPC, which is responsible for implementing the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, stated that MultiChoice violated key provisions of the law, particularly in handling sensitive personal data without obtaining proper consent or ensuring lawful processing protocols.

What Happened: The Breach and Its Scope

According to the NDPC, its investigative audit revealed that MultiChoice Nigeria illegally transferred personal data outside Nigeria, bypassing mandatory safeguards that are required before such cross-border movement can take place.

While full technical details of the breach were not disclosed, the Commission confirmed that the incident affected:

• Active subscribers, including personal information such as names, contact details, and account activities

• Non-subscribers, whose data may have been collected through third-party interactions or digital tracking tools

• Data transferred to foreign data processors or servers without adequate protections or user awareness

“MultiChoice’s actions contravened the principles of transparency, lawfulness, and accountability as enshrined in Nigeria’s data protection framework,” said Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the NDPC.

A Landmark Fine in Nigeria’s Data Privacy History

The ₦766 million fine marks one of the largest penalties ever issued by the NDPC, signaling a new era of enforcement, corporate responsibility, and consumer rights protection in Nigeria’s digital economy.

This decision comes at a time of growing concern over how both local and multinational companies handle the personal data of Nigerian citizens. With the accelerated digitalization of services, concerns around data harvesting, tracking, and unauthorized sharing have become increasingly urgent.

Legal experts say the case could serve as a precedent for holding other corporations accountable under Nigeria’s Data Protection Act, which was signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in 2023.

MultiChoice’s Response and Broader Corporate Impact

As of the time of publication, MultiChoice Nigeria has not issued a detailed public statement addressing the NDPC’s ruling. However, the company may seek legal redress or enter a compliance and remediation process to resolve the breach and prevent future violations.

The NDPC noted that it had offered MultiChoice an opportunity to improve its data handling policies through a remedial action plan, including:

• Implementing robust data governance frameworks

• Appointing a dedicated data protection officer

• Establishing clear consent and opt-out mechanisms for customers

• Ensuring cross-border data transfer compliance with international best practices

Why This Matters: Protecting Digital Citizens

The MultiChoice case highlights a deeper shift in how digital rights are being recognized and enforced in Nigeria. With more citizens using streaming services, mobile apps, and digital platforms, data privacy is no longer a niche issue, it’s a matter of public interest and national security.

The NDPC has also warned other organizations to audit their data collection and storage practices, particularly those operating across borders. Companies failing to comply with Nigeria’s data protection laws risk fines of up to 2% of their annual gross revenue, depending on the severity of the breach.

“Data belongs to the individual. No company, regardless of size, is above the law,” Dr. Olatunji reiterated.

Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for the Digital Economy

The ₦766 million penalty levied on MultiChoice Nigeria sends a powerful message: data protection is now a frontline issue in corporate governance and consumer trust. As Nigeria’s digital landscape evolves, businesses must prioritize ethical data use, security, and compliance.

This case is not just about a breach, it’s about accountability, public trust, and the future of data regulation in one of Africa’s fastest-growing digital markets.

Published on Xamblog.com – Your go-to source for in-depth coverage of technology, governance, and data rights in Nigeria.