Temu, the global e-commerce giant currently expanding its footprint in the Nigerian market, has officially responded to the inquiry launched by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) regarding alleged data privacy violations.
The company’s response follows reports that the NDPC had commenced an investigation into the platform’s data processing activities to ensure compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023.
In an official statement made available to Techeconomy and aimed at providing clarity on its regulatory standing, Temu emphasized its commitment to local and international data protection standards.
The company confirmed that it is already in communication with the Commission to resolve any outstanding concerns.
“At Temu, protecting user privacy and data security is a top priority. We are committed to complying with applicable laws and regulations in our data practices,” the statement read.
Temu further confirmed its active participation in the process, stating:
“We can confirm that Temu has received the inquiry and is engaging with the Commission. We will continue to engage in open and constructive dialogue with the NDPC to address any questions or concerns.”
The Regulatory Context
The NDPC, led by Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the national commissioner has recently intensified its oversight of foreign digital platforms operating within Nigeria.
The commission’s mandate is to ensure that the personal data of Nigerian citizens, ranging from contact details to financial information, is collected, stored, and processed in a transparent and secure manner.
For e-commerce platforms like Temu, which handle massive volumes of consumer data, regulatory alignment is critical for maintaining operational licenses and consumer trust in Africa’s largest economy.
Market Implications
Temu’s proactive confirmation of its engagement with the NDPC is seen by industry analysts as a strategic move to de-escalate potential regulatory friction.
In recent years, Nigeria has shown a no-nonsense approach to big tech compliance, as seen in previous engagements with platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and various fintech entities.
By opting for constructive dialogue, Temu appears to be positioning itself as a compliant player, looking to secure its long-term interests in a market where digital retail is projected to grow significantly by 2026.
For the Nigerian tech ecosystem, this development highlights the growing influence of the NDPC. Investors and foreign firms must now factor in Data Compliance Costs as a non-negotiable part of their entry strategy.
Temu’s willingness to engage openly could serve as a blueprint for other international retailers looking to navigate Nigeria’s evolving regulatory landscape without disrupting their growth trajectory.
