The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) believes that a strong data privacy ecosystem can propel Nigeria towards a trillion-dollar economy.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of NDPC, made this statement during a news conference in Abuja to mark Global Privacy Day on January 28, 2025.
Starting in Europe back in 2008, this day emphasizes the importance of privacy and protecting personal data.
Olatunji emphasized that Nigeria can boost economic growth by implementing the Nigeria Data Protection-Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (NDP-SRAP).
Additionally, promoting local technology and fostering international partnerships will strengthen indigenous data privacy measures in the nation.
“We really shouldn’t depend on foreign technologies. We need to support our local innovations,” he said.
He emphasized that NDPC’s platforms, services, portals, and websites are all developed locally and are sufficiently robust for usage.
“This initiative can indeed drive technological advancement, and we’re talking about establishing a trillion-dollar economy powered by digital innovation,” he added.
Olatunji mentioned that the private sector can deliver numerous services, including audit files, data controller registrations, and breach reporting, showing there’s a lot happening in terms of awareness and service provision.
Additionally, he encouraged startups to engage with the data privacy ecosystem, pointing out the vast potential waiting to be explored.
While discussing the day’s significance, Olatunji acknowledged the global nature of data privacy principles but emphasized the importance of adapting these principles to local laws and regulations.
He urged stakeholders to utilize their data protection knowledge not only in Nigeria but also globally.
“What we want is for you to adjust to the local laws wherever you operate.
Data protection principles are universal, and the expertise you gain here can be beneficial everywhere,” he remarked.
Olatunji recognized the vast potential within Nigeria’s data ecosystem.
He stated that developing human capital is essential for boosting the country’s digital economy.
NDPC is particularly focused on increasing capacity while fostering the growth of local digital technologies to minimize dependence on external solutions.
He reiterated their commitment to innovation and collaboration through initiatives that bolster data protection awareness, compliance, and enforcement efforts.
Nigeria’s recent entry into the Global Privacy Assembly highlights its commitment to data protection and privacy initiatives.
Additionally, hosting the 2025 Network of African Data Protection Authorities conference demonstrates the country’s leadership in advancing data protection efforts.
Olatunji pointed out that a solid data protection framework is crucial for attracting foreign investment, meeting global standards, and protecting data subjects’ rights.
He stated that NDPC signed agreements with data protection authorities in Canada and the UAE to enhance cross-border knowledge sharing.
“Our laws are applicable even when Nigerian data is processed internationally.
Working with foreign data protection agencies helps us share knowledge more effectively,” he explained.
Recently, the commission has conducted numerous awareness campaigns, training more than 55,000 individuals on data privacy issues.
Additionally, it has organized 5,300 capacity-building programs to enhance skills and knowledge in this important area.
These efforts aimed to enhance understanding and improve skills related to data privacy among the community.
The event wrapped up with the launch of the NDPC International Journal of Data Privacy and Protection.
Additionally, attendees unveiled the commission’s annual report for 2024, showcasing key findings and recommendations for data protection.