Nigeria has launched an investigation into major global technology companies over allegations of anti-competitive practices and the unauthorised use of local news content to develop artificial intelligence systems.

The inquiry reflects growing global scrutiny of how AI companies source and use copyrighted content to train their models.

Publishers Raise Concerns

The investigation follows complaints from Nigerian media organisations, which accused companies including Alphabet, Meta and X of extracting content from local publishers without adequate authorisation or compensation.

Publishers argue that the practice threatens the sustainability of Nigeria's news industry by reducing the commercial value of original journalism.

FCCPC to Lead Investigation

Nigeria's competition regulator will examine whether the alleged practices violate the country's competition and consumer protection laws, including claims of market dominance and the unauthorised use of copyrighted news content.

The investigation marks Nigeria's second major probe into global technology companies in recent years.

Part of a Growing Global Trend

The Nigerian investigation mirrors similar legal and regulatory actions in other countries as governments and publishers seek greater protection for copyrighted content used to train AI models.

Cases involving OpenAI in the United States and Canada have highlighted increasing concerns over how generative AI companies obtain and monetise third-party content.

The outcome of Nigeria's investigation could influence future discussions around AI regulation, publisher compensation and digital competition across Africa.