Content creators in Lagos often film unsuspecting pedestrians, then share videos online without their consent.
Consequently, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has warned creators to respect citizens’ privacy online.
Content Creators Under Watch
NDPC’s Head of Legal, Babatunde Bamigboye, explained that filming people without permission actively breaches privacy rights.
Moreover, some creators record ordinary life for entertainment, raising serious concerns about misusing personal data.
Publishing images or videos without consent directly violates informational self-determination rights under the 2023 NDPC Act.
For example, a Lagos-based creator films roadside “reality shows,” capturing pedestrians’ reactions without informing them.
Therefore, the NDPC stressed that creators must obtain consent unless lawful grounds justify sharing personal images.
People naturally expect that strangers will not record or distribute their images publicly online.
Preliminary findings indicate these creators deliberately invade privacy while offering no genuine public benefit.
Platforms Must Enforce Rules
As a result, CEO Vincent Olatunji directed TikTok, X, and Meta to enforce their community guidelines strictly.
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Consequently, stronger platform enforcement can prevent unlawful processing of personal data and reduce online harm.
Nigeria has experienced explosive growth in social media content creation since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram enabled ordinary Nigerians to reach millions worldwide efficiently.
In addition, comedy skits, lifestyle videos, and viral clips have become daily staples on social media.
Creators also earn income from views, sponsorships, and advertising, transforming hobbies into full-time careers.
YouTube creators alone now generate over 20 billion views annually, showing the sector’s massive digital impact.
According to Dataleum, Nigeria’s creator industry is worth ₦50 billion ($31.2 million) in 2025, ranking third largest.
Privacy Remains Priority
Despite growth, the NDPC reminds creators that they must never compromise citizens’ privacy for entertainment purposes.
Every street in Lagos holds stories, but creators must actively respect those whose lives they capture online.
Failure to follow rules may lead the NDPC to enforce fines or legal consequences under Nigerian law.
Finally, the NDPC encourages creators to educate themselves on data protection and responsible online practices across Nigeria.
