Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has taken steps to settle a $32.8 million fine imposed by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC).
Lawyers representing Meta and the NDPC appeared before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday, revealing that settlement talks were advanced.
The dispute arose from the NDPC's February 2025 decision to punish Meta for allegedly processing Nigerians' personal data without their knowledge, violating cross-border data transfer standards, and failing to file a compliance assessment.
Meta, on the other hand, has argued that it was denied a fair hearing during the Commission's procedures.
The NDPC's enforcement action against Meta is part of its efforts to ensure compliance with the country's Data Protection Act.
During last week's court hearing, Meta's counsel, Fred Onwuobia, requested that the court defer its ruling on pending motions so that both parties can wrap up discussions, adding that "draft terms of settlement have been exchanged."
Confirming the move, NDPC attorney Adeola Adedipe stated that the parties had made progress and requested an adjournment so that they could return with an agreed-upon position to be approved as a consent judgement.
Justice Omotosho commended the parties for choosing dialogue, emphasising that the court encourages settlements in such cases.
He postponed proceedings until October 31, 2025, for either the adoption of the settlement terms or the delivery of his decision.
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