The passing of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) has sparked concerns about whether it might mirror data privacy laws in other countries. Recently, Multichoice was sanctioned by the NDPC and fined over ₦766.2 million.
It’s not just a legal matter; this fine is merely an ironic restriction. Multichoice, which owns and operates DStv and GOtv, has been found guilty of infringing on various sections of the NDPA. The company was charged by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission with gathering an excessive amount of personal information, including from individuals who were not customers, and then sending it overseas without proper authorization. The concern for data privacy in Nigeria felt like something only activists cared about. However, the enforcement demonstrates that government is no longer just talking. It’s acting.
The fact that MultiChoice didn’t just violate a small rule is what makes this development so remarkable. As per the NDPC, this company collected personal data in ways that were labeled as “intrusive,” unjust, unnecessary, and disproportionate. Nigerians are frequently asked for confidential information, just to watch TV. It’s possible that your data or the data of someone you share with is being sent to another country without your approval. Until it’s too late, most people are unaware that this is a violation.
According to the NDPC, MultiChoice did not cooperate during the investigation. That’s a huge red flag. That means the company either didn’t act on compliance grounds or believed it could get away with non-compliance. But it’s clear those days are over. It has been reported that the NDPC has levied its largest fine since its inception, and it sets an impressive standard for the future of digital media in Nigeria.
The NDPC’s enforcement is tied to the Nigerian Constitution’s Section 37, which guarantees the right to privacy. This isn’t just about completing tasks to meet expectations. The objective is to reconcile corporate behavior with constitutional rights. Rejecting such a disregard is no longer just repercussions on regulations, but defending civil liberties in the age of digital freedom.
Multichoice Nigeria isn’t the only company affected by this fine. Every telecom, streaming service and fintech app or social network operating in Nigeria gets a loud warning. The collection of user data, particularly at scale, must be done lawfully and transparently. The NDPC’s action shows that enforcement isn’t limited to local players either—foreign firms doing business here should be paying very close attention.
It is important to take into account the larger context. Africa’s digital economy is being spearheaded by Nigeria. Data is the currency of the future for investors and tech startups alike. The establishment of a reliable ecosystem requires the assumption of responsibility. This is a significant advancement in that regard. If companies acknowledge the potential consequences of misusing user data, they will reconsider their actions.
The verdict provides an empowering experience for consumers. The majority of Nigerians are used to the fact that they have no control over data usage by companies. The majority of individuals are unaware of their rights. Despite the fine, it is clear that data privacy is protected and a commission is prepared to defend this right.
For MultiChoice, this isn’t just a financial hit—it’s a reputational one. Nigerians don’t take kindly to companies that exploit them, especially when the evidence is so public. It will now have to undergo a full audit and likely change its data practices to meet the new NDPA standards. The law appears to be keeping an eye on the matter.
This is not the end of the story. NDPC has stated that it will keep track of companies and may impose additional sanctions as needed. Nigeria is currently experiencing a marked change from policy to enforcement. This is precisely what they require.
The bottom line? To be considered a truly digital economy, this country must prioritize the preservation of its data sources. This is more than a punishment; it’s incredibly significant for MultiChoice. My hope is that it’s only the beginning.
