Investigating Artificial Intelligence Digital Sovereignty in Mobile Shopping Apps: A Case Study of Nigeria

AI is widespread in Nigerian shopping apps, but users are largely kept in the dark: The study found that AI features are commonly implemented across mobile shopping applications in Nigeria, yet companies disclose very little information about how these AI systems actually work or what data they collect from users.

Transparency gaps undermine user control: Limited disclosure practices mean Nigerian consumers cannot make informed decisions about their digital interactions. The research identifies platform transparency as a critical measure of whether users can meaningfully control their own digital experiences.

Digital sovereignty is at risk for vulnerable populations: The socio-economic analysis reveals that Nigerians show moderate awareness of AI and increasing dependence on consumer digital platforms, creating conditions where users may be particularly vulnerable to exploitation through opaque AI systems they don't understand.

Forensic analysis reveals hidden AI implementation: By technically examining Android applications, researchers documented that AI features exist in these apps even when companies don't openly acknowledge them to users—suggesting a gap between actual AI use and what companies tell consumers.

Protecting user rights requires urgent action: The study highlights that without stronger transparency requirements and disclosure practices, individual digital sovereignty—the ability of users to maintain control over their own digital lives—is being eroded in AI-driven shopping environments.