The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has launched an inquiry into the data handling procedures of TikTok and TrueCaller due to increasing worries regarding possible breaches of privacy.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, who serves as the CEO of the NDPC, announced this at a press briefing held in Abuja today. During his speech, he also disclosed the release of the Nigeria Data Protection Act – General Application and Implementation Directive (NDPC Act – GAID) for the year 2025.
Dr. Olatunji indicated that the main focus of the commission is on how these platforms handle the personal information of Nigerian users, particularly regarding issues such as unauthorized use, data disclosure to external entities, and adherence to the provisions set out in the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) from 2023. He affirmed that the NDPC is currently probing TikTok and TrueCaller’s methods of managing user data to confirm their alignment with Nigeria’s regulatory standards for data protection.
"The aim is to protect the privacy rights of Nigerians and ensure that organizations are held responsible for their collection, storage, and usage of personal information," he stated additionally.
The inquiry arises as global tech firms face growing oversight over data privacy concerns, particularly with regard to the handling, storage, and transmission of individual details across international boundaries.
The NDPC Act – GAID, released today in 2025, offers a comprehensive structure for enforcing Nigeria’s data protection legislation. It details compliance requirements, enforcement procedures, and responsibilities for entities across both government and private sectors.
Dr. Olatunji highlighted that the guideline is designed to bolster Nigeria’s digital economy by building confidence in data management practices. This ensures that personal privacy rights are upheld consistent with global standards.
He emphasized that businesses functioning within Nigeria have to adhere to the nation’s data protection laws or risk facing regulatory measures such as penalties and possible limitations.
The NDPC has encouraged people to come forward with information about any breaches of data privacy laws and restated its dedication to being open and following proper procedures during their inquiries.
The commission observed that sharing information about data breaches has grown easier via specialized sections on their official webpage.
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