ABUJA, Feb 17 (GeokHub) — Nigeria’s data protection regulator has opened a formal investigation into Chinese-owned e-commerce platform Temu over suspected breaches of the country’s data privacy laws.
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) said concerns surrounding Temu’s data-processing practices triggered the probe. The regulator cited issues including online surveillance, unclear data-handling procedures, cross-border data transfers, and potential violations of data-minimisation requirements.
The investigation could lead to financial penalties or corrective measures in one of Africa’s largest digital markets.
NDPC National Commissioner Vincent Olatunji authorized the inquiry and warned that data processors operating in Nigeria could face liability if found non-compliant with national regulations.
The agency did not specify a timeline for the investigation’s conclusion.
Temu did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Rapid Growth Under Global Scrutiny
The regulatory action comes as Temu faces increasing international attention over its aggressive global expansion strategy. The platform has grown quickly in Nigeria, offering app-based access to discounted fashion, electronics, and household products.
According to the NDPC, Temu processes personal data for approximately 12.7 million Nigerian users and serves around 70 million daily users worldwide.
Temu is owned by PDD Holdings, which is publicly traded on Nasdaq.
Nigeria’s Expanding Data Enforcement Record
Nigeria has strengthened its enforcement of data protection laws in recent years. In 2025, regulators imposed a 766 million naira fine on Multichoice Nigeria for violations of privacy regulations, signaling a tougher compliance environment for multinational and domestic firms alike.
As digital commerce accelerates across Africa, regulators are increasingly focused on ensuring that global tech platforms adhere to local data sovereignty and consumer protection standards.
