By Emmanuel Elebeke

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has announced its commitment to leveraging local technology to enhance data privacy awareness among citizens.

Speaking at an event in Abuja to mark Global Privacy Day, the National Commissioner of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, emphasized the importance of developing indigenous digital technologies to drive data protection and boost Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

“We can’t keep relying on foreign technologies for what we’re doing here. Our local content must be encouraged. That’s why all our service platforms, portals, and websites are locally developed and robust enough for our operations,” Olatunji stated.

He highlighted the role of the private sector in building a trillion-dollar digital economy driven by indigenous technology solutions, adding that startups are making significant progress.

“I was in Lagos about two weeks ago for an event by a startup company, and what I saw blew my mind. People are making serious progress and money in this country,” he said.

Olatunji noted that emerging technologies and low awareness remain major challenges to data protection in Nigeria. He emphasized that safeguarding the digital environment requires more than just legislation; it demands effective implementation and collective action from stakeholders.

“The onus is on all stakeholders to translate legal provisions into tangible protections. Nigeria can forge a safer and more secure online environment for its children by diligently implementing recommendations and fostering robust collaboration,” he added.

The Commissioner disclosed that NDPC has signed several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with countries like Canada and the UAE to harmonize data protection laws and cross-border regulations. He also advocated for regular updates to Nigeria’s legal framework to address the rapid technological advancements and evolving online risks.

Licensing of 500 Data Processing Officers

Training of 55,529 beneficiaries

Investigation of 534 data breaches

Generation of N1.95 billion in revenue

Dr. Olatunji also announced that Nigeria will host the 2025 Network of African Data Protection Authorities Conference and AGM in May. The event will provide a platform for African data protection authorities to exchange knowledge and showcase Nigeria’s progress in data protection.

The event concluded with the launch of the NDPC journal and its annual report.