President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate major technology companies like Meta, Google, X, and others over allegations of anti-competitive conduct and the exploitation of Nigerian media content.
The probe will also examine Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms operating in Nigeria. The move follows growing concerns from media stakeholders about the future of the country’s news industry in the digital age.
Investigation follows petition by media organisations
The investigation stems from a joint petition submitted to the Presidency by the Nigerian Press Organisation (NPO).
The NPO represents the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), and the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP).
The federal government communicated its directive through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
The petition alleges that some global technology companies have engaged in practices that threaten the sustainability of Nigeria’s media industry.
Meta, Google, X and AI platforms under scrutiny
The FCCPC will examine the activities of major technology firms, including Meta, Alphabet (Google), X, formerly Twitter, and selected Generative AI platforms.
The commission will investigate claims of anti-competitive conduct and unlawful use of journalistic content.
It will also review allegations involving unauthorised content extraction, data scraping and the commercial use of copyrighted news materials.
In addition, investigators will assess whether AI developers used Nigerian media content without fair compensation.
“The inquiry is an opportunity to carefully examine the facts,” the FCCPC stated.
FCCPC promises fair and independent inquiry
FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, assured stakeholders of a transparent process. He stressed that the investigation does not presume guilt against any company.
“Every party will receive a fair opportunity to present relevant information before conclusions are reached.”
Bello added that the commission would determine whether any conduct violated the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act or other applicable laws.
Government seeks fair digital competition
The federal government said it supports innovation but insists competition must remain fair.
“We recognise the strategic importance of the media to Nigeria’s democracy,” Bello said.
He added that technology remains vital to economic growth but should not undermine legitimate businesses.
The FCCPC noted that similar disputes have emerged globally.
It referenced South Africa, where Google agreed to compensate news organisations following regulatory engagement.
The outcome of Nigeria’s investigation could shape future relations between technology companies, AI developers and local media publishers.
Industry observers believe the findings may redefine digital competition and content rights in Nigeria’s evolving media landscape.
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