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The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has commenced an investigation into an alleged data breach involving Remita Payment Services Limited, Sterling Bank, and other unnamed entities.
The development was disclosed in a press release issued by the Commission on Sunday, April 5, 2026, as concerns grow over the safety of personal data within Nigeria’s digital payment ecosystem.
According to the statement, the Commission confirmed that a Notice of Investigation had already been served on the affected organisations on April 1, 2026, in line with its regulatory procedures. It added that relevant parties and individuals are currently cooperating by providing necessary information to aid the probe.
The NDPC explained that the investigation is aimed at determining the nature, scope, and impact of the alleged breach, particularly the categories of personal data involved and the level of risk posed to affected individuals.
It further stated that the exercise would also assess whether adequate technical and organisational measures were put in place by the organisations to safeguard user data, as required under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023.
“The objective is to ensure that data subjects are protected and that appropriate mitigation steps are taken where a breach is confirmed,” the Commission noted.
In a broader warning, the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, directed that other organisations operating digital payment platforms without proper data protection structures would also come under scrutiny.
The Commission stressed that the move forms part of a wider effort to strengthen data security standards and uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s digital and financial systems.
As of the time of filing this report, Remita and Sterling Bank had yet to issue official responses regarding the allegations.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to shape future enforcement actions and could signal stricter compliance measures for financial technology firms and banks operating in the country.
