The Federal Ministry of Youth Development and Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) say they have agreed to equip 5000 Nigerian youths with skills in data protection.
The planned data privacy and protection training followed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), the nation’s data protection watchdog.
Initiative Targets Job Creation
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, Engr. Ayodele Olawande, Minister of State for Youth Development, says he is expressed confident that the programme would foster job and wealth creation. “No less than 80% of human capital development under the administration of the President are targeted at youths and this initiative is aimed at equipping 5,000 youths with the requisite technical skills for new jobs in the data protection ecosystem.”

Data protection builds trust, NDPC CEO says
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of NDPC, explains the critical role of data privacy in driving Nigeria’s economic growth. Fostering trust through data accountability, Olatunji says, is essential for attracting foreign direct investment.
With over 500,000 data controllers in the country, each needing a data protection officer, the initiative also offers substantial employment opportunities for youth, the National Commissioner for data protection in Nigeria says.
Dr. Olatunji also noted that certification for the training would be handled locally, reducing foreign exchange costs, with globally recognized certificates issued by a licensed in-country certification body.
Ministry’s Commitment
Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, commended the NDPC’s focus on data protection and assured that the Youth Ministry is committed to ensuring the success of the collaboration.