FCCPC to probe tech giants over news content use

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) is set to probe major global technology companies and generative AI platforms operating in Nigeria over alleged anti-competitive practices, unlawful use of news content, and other unfair market conduct.

In a statement on Monday, FCCPC Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, said the probe followed a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after a joint petition by the Nigerian Press Organisation (NPO), which includes NPAN, NUJ, BON, and GOCOP.

The directive was conveyed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

The Commission said the investigation could be a major step for Nigeria’s media sector, as concerns grow over the impact of digital platforms on the sustainability of news organisations.

The NPO accused companies including Meta, Alphabet, X, and some generative AI platforms of practices that undermine competition, threaten media viability, and infringe on the rights of news content creators and publishers.

FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and CEO Tunji Bello said the inquiry would be independent, transparent, and evidence-based, adding “We recognise the strategic importance of the media to Nigeria’s democracy and the role of technology in innovation and growth. Our responsibility is to determine the facts and ensure fair competition in the digital ecosystem”.

He said the probe was not a presumption of wrongdoing, but a chance to hear all sides and assess whether any conduct has led to anti-competitive or unfair practices. The FCCPC said it will determine whether the alleged conduct violates the FCCPA 2018 or any other Nigerian law.

It also recalled its previous case against Meta, which led to a 2025 judgment and a $220 million fine over FCCPA violations, including data privacy breaches. Meta has appealed.

The new probe will examine alleged market dominance, unauthorised scraping and use of copyrighted news content for AI training.