10/10/2026
BIG CHANGE FOR NIGERIAN SMES USING AI! 🚨
If you use WhatsApp bots, automatic IG DMs (like ManyChat), or ChatGPT to talk to your customers, the game is changing.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) just released the draft Sales Promotion (Amended) Regulations, 2026.
Here is what you need to know in simple terms:
Why now?
The government wants to stop misleading automated sales pitches and protect consumer data from rogue AI systems.
Who is affected?
Any business using machine learning, virtual influencers, or automated messaging to market to Nigerians.
The Big Catch: If your automated system makes a false promise or misleading claim to a customer, YOU take the blame, not the tech.
The Risk: Fines up to ₦100 Million or 1% of your yearly business turnover.
How to protect your SME today:
1️⃣ Audit your bots: Go through your automated templates and ensure they do not exaggerate prices, discounts, or delivery times.
2️⃣ Keep it human: Ensure there’s an easy way for a customer to switch from your chatbot to a real human agent if things get complicated.
3️⃣ Stay updated: This is currently a draft, meaning we still have time to adapt before full enforcement begins.
Image source: Nairametrics Financial Advocates