Meta has unveiled new monetisation features for WhatsApp users in Nigeria, aiming to help creators and businesses generate revenue on the platform without compromising user privacy.
The updates, set to roll out in the coming months, include channel subscriptions, promoted channels, and advertisements in WhatsApp Status.
With Channel Subscriptions, users can pay a monthly fee to access exclusive content from creators, media outlets, or sports organisations. Meanwhile, Promoted Channels will allow creators and businesses to boost their visibility by paying for targeted suggestions based on user interests. Additionally, Status Ads will enable businesses to display image or video ads between WhatsApp Status updates, offering direct engagement opportunities with potential customers.
Meta emphasised that these monetisation tools will not affect WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption. The company assured users that phone numbers will not be shared with advertisers, and only basic information like city and language will be used to personalise ads.
This move comes amid regulatory scrutiny, including a recent $220 million fine by the Nigerian government. Despite this, Meta confirmed the new features will be available in Nigeria, alongside a notice that WhatsApp will soon stop supporting some older Android and iOS devices, urging users to upgrade to maintain access.
