Nigeria’s regulators, FCCPC, NCC, and NDPC, unite to curb data abuse by digital lending apps. WeekendDigits@ITREALMS with REMMY NWEKE explores how everyday loans turned into surveillance, and how the regulatory triangle fights back.Preamble:
Madam Lizzy only wanted a quick loan.
The advert promised “instant approval, no paperwork.” Out of curiosity, she downloaded the app, requested ₦1 million, and within hours, the funds appeared. She repaid before the due date—relieved and impressed.
Every morning, a strange number flashed on her screen: “Madam, you are yet to pay your loan.” She explained repeatedly that the debt was settled, yet the messages multiplied short messaging service (SMS) reminders, WhatsApp texts, even phone calls from aggressive “customer agents” threatening to contact her friends and family.
