The Federal Government, via the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), has levied a substantial ₦766,242,500 fine against MultiChoice Nigeria for serious violations under the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA).

The penalty follows a year-long inquiry into its data handling practices, as per reports from Punch

According to Babatunde Bamigboye, Head of Legal, Enforcement, and Regulations at the NDPC, the probe, initiated in Q2 of 2024, revealed that MultiChoice processed personal data in ways deemed “intrusive, unfair, unnecessary and disproportionate.”

This unlawful practice did not only affect the pay-TV provider’s subscribers but also included individuals linked to them who were not direct customers. The commission accused MultiChoice of transferring Nigerian citizens’ personal data across borders without adhering to required legal protocols.

Demand for Remedial Action Was Ignored

Despite being instructed to adopt corrective measures, Bamigboye said MultiChoice’s response was deemed “unsatisfactory.

“For want of cooperation, the Commission has directed to pay ₦766,242,500 for violating the Nigeria Data Protection Act,” he stated.

Furthermore, NDPC’s National Commissioner, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, has mandated a broader investigation into all points where MultiChoice collects data, warning that any outlet found non-compliant will face penalties under the NDPA.

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Section 37 of the Nigerian Constitution

The NDPC emphasised that the violations contravene Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution, which protects citizens’ rights to privacy.

“This is a grave affront to the fundamental right to privacy,” the commission said.

They also invoked Nigeria’s data sovereignty obligations under both domestic and international law, stressing implications for national security, economic development, and the rule of law.

MultiChoice Faces Pressure on Multiple Fronts

This latest regulatory action adds to a string of challenges facing MultiChoice Nigeria. In February 2025, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) temporarily halted proposed price hikes by the provider. Bulky fines and possible criminal charges loom over them and its CEO, John Ugbe, for ignoring directives related to competition and consumer protection.

The ₦766 million sanction signals a turning point in Nigeria’s approach to digital rights. NDPC’s move sends a clear message: data privacy is not negotiable. As digitisation deepens, strict enforcement against breaches and illegal cross-border transfers is likely to intensify.

“Nigeria is entitled to defend its data sovereignty under both local and international law,” NDPC officials stressed.

Their response remains awaited. Nigeria’s viewers and regulators will be watching closely to see whether the company complies with data protections or faces further sanctions.