President Bola Tinubu has directed the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate major global technology companies and generative artificial intelligence platforms over allegations of anti-competitive practices and the use of Nigerian news content without adequate compensation.
The directive was disclosed by the FCCPC in a statement issued on Monday by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu.
According to the Commission, the investigation follows a joint petition submitted to the Presidency by the Nigerian Press Organisation (NPO), comprising 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 directive was conveyed to the FCCPC through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
The Commission said the inquiry will cover major technology firms, including Meta, Alphabet (Google’s parent company), X, and generative AI platforms operating in Nigeria.
According to the FCCPC, the investigation follows concerns that some digital platforms may be benefiting commercially from news content produced by Nigerian media organisations without providing fair compensation, while engaging in practices that could undermine competition.
Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, said the Commission would conduct an independent and evidence-based investigation.
“We recognise the strategic importance of the media to Nigeria’s democracy and the equally significant role of technology in driving innovation and economic growth. Our responsibility is to objectively determine the facts and ensure that competition within the digital ecosystem remains fair, transparent, and consistent with Nigerian law,” Bello said.
He stressed that the investigation does not presume any wrongdoing.
“This inquiry is not directed at any entity by presumption of wrongdoing. Rather, it is an opportunity to carefully examine the facts, hear from all affected parties, and determine whether any conduct has resulted in anti-competitive outcomes or unfair business practices,” he added.
The Commission said all affected parties would be given the opportunity to present relevant information before any conclusions are reached.
