The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has officially launched National Privacy Week, coinciding with Global Privacy Day 2025.
The event, marked by a press conference led by Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner and CEO of the NDPC, emphasises the importance of data protection and privacy rights in Nigeria’s evolving digital landscape.
The NDPC which was established under the Nigeria Data Protection Act of 2023, is tasked with safeguarding data privacy and promoting responsible data handling practices across the nation.
NDPC: National Privacy Week promotes awareness of data privacy rights
The National Privacy Week serves as a platform to raise awareness about data privacy rights and foster a culture of responsibility among individuals and organizations.
During his address at the launch event, the NDPC National Commissioner outlines several key achievements of the NDPC since the last Data Privacy Day.
He says that the Commission has made significant strides in advancing data protection in Nigeria, positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s data protection ecosystem.
The data protection agency’s activities have gained international recognition, underscoring its commitment to fostering a strong privacy culture, Dr. Olatunji says, while reiterated the Commission’s dedication to job creation, particularly for Nigerian youth, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He highlights the recent introduction of the National Certification Programme for Data Protection Officers, which aims to certify professionals in this field domestically. This initiative is projected to generate over 500,000 jobs within Nigeria’s data protection ecosystem.
Dr. Olatunji urged all parties to work together to safeguard personal data and protect privacy rights. He stressed that raising awareness about privacy is essential for building a strong foundation for data protection in Nigeria.
The NDPC’s commitment to collaboration extends beyond national borders. By engaging with international partners and experts, the Commission aims to enhance its capabilities and ensure that Nigeria remains competitive in the global data protection landscape, he adds.
The event also featured the unveiling of the NDPC’s Annual Report and its inaugural Journal on Data Protection and Privacy. The Annual Report provides a comprehensive overview of the Commission’s activities and accomplishments over the past year, while the Journal serves as a scholarly platform for researchers, academics, and industry experts to publish innovative studies related to data protection.
Dr. Olatunji highlighted that these publications are part of the NDPC’s efforts to promote knowledge sharing and best practices in data protection.
A significant aspect of the NDPC’s initiatives is its focus on capacity building within Nigeria’s workforce. By training individuals in data protection practices and certifying Data Protection Officers, the Commission aims to equip professionals with the skills necessary to navigate complex regulatory environments.
The integration of training programmes into the NDPC’s strategy reflects a broader trend towards enhancing human capital in response to increasing demands for data privacy compliance. As organisations face stricter regulations regarding data handling, having qualified professionals becomes essential for ensuring adherence to legal standards.
National Privacy Week will feature various events aimed at educating individuals about their rights regarding personal data.
The NDPC says it plans to engage with communities through workshops, seminars, and online campaigns to foster greater awareness about data privacy issues.
By encouraging public participation in these initiatives, the data protection agency hopes to empower citizens to take control of their personal information and understand their rights under Nigerian law.
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