Amid Meta Platforms Inc.'s threat to withdraw Facebook and Instagram services from Nigeria due to a $290 million fine for data privacy violations, Nigerians are increasingly advocating for the development of indigenous social media platforms. This fine, upheld by Nigeria's Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, stems from Meta's alleged breaches of the country's data protection and competition laws, including unauthorized data transfers and discriminatory practices against Nigerian users.

Social media users across Nigeria have expressed concerns over the potential loss of these platforms, which are integral to communication, business, and social interaction. Many believe that establishing homegrown alternatives would not only ensure compliance with local regulations but also promote technological innovation and economic growth within the country. For instance, WhatsApp user Moses Atuegwu criticized Meta's exit threat as "uncalled for," emphasizing the need for Nigeria to develop its own platforms to avoid reliance on foreign entities.

Similarly, Pearl Adekunle highlighted that countries like China and Russia have successfully implemented indigenous social media platforms, enhancing their data protection policies and technological advancements. She argued that Nigeria could adopt a similar approach to bolster its tech industry and safeguard user data.

In response to this growing demand, new platforms like 9jafinds.com have emerged, aiming to provide Nigerians with locally developed social networking options that align with national regulations and user expectations.

The situation underscores the importance of digital sovereignty and the need for countries to have control over their digital infrastructure. As Nigeria navigates this challenge, the push for indigenous platforms may lead to a more self-reliant and secure digital ecosystem.

Esther Indiana-Obong, a Facebook subscriber, said that creating indigenous platforms would foster competition and innovation in Nigeria’s IT sector while reducing dependence on foreign brands.
Alhaji Aminu Zakari, also a social media user, pointed out that a local platform would help the government regulate social media more effectively.

Meta’s threat followed the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal’s decision in July 2024 to uphold a $220 million fine against Meta Platforms Inc. and WhatsApp LLC for violating the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) and Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR). The tribunal also ordered Meta to pay $35,000 as investigation costs.

According to the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Meta’s violations include denying Nigerians control over their personal data, transferring user data without authorisation, discriminating against Nigerian users compared to those in other regions, and abusing its dominant market position through unfair privacy policies.

The FCCPC described Meta’s exit threat as a calculated move to induce public pressure on the commission.