FG Promises to Improve on Data Protection, Security

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

The federal government has promised to improve on the security and privacy of the personal data of citizens with the aid of the existing data protection law.

The National Commissioner and CEO of the National Data Protection Commission (NPDC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji disclose this at the opening of a two-day dialogue on internet governance organised by Accountability Lab Nigeria in Abuja.

He said in an effort to enhance data protection and privacy for Nigerians, the federal government had resolved to be proactive in safeguarding personal information to ensure compliance with global data regulations.

Olatunji, who was represented by the Head, Innovation Unit, NDPC, Chiderah Ikeokonkwo, said the federal government was committed to creating more awareness to Nigerians, and strengthening data protection mechanisms to instill trust and confidence among Nigerian citizens.

He said: “Everything we do these days is connected to technology and as a result of that, we need to be able to have some control over the use, the access, what exactly is being done with these information that we exchange online. 

“So, at the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, we regulate the processing of personal data, which means that we superintend over issues of data protection and privacy in all sectors of the economy and so in terms of work, the kind of work that we do with civil society organisations like accountability lab, it centres around stakeholder engagements. 

“We also organize trainings you know, any form of capacity building just to make sure that we are doing something to positively increase the awareness on data protection and privacy in Nigeria and to also make sure that we’re building the number of experts on the issue of data protection and privacy.

“If people are aware of what happens when they are exchanging information online, then they will be better informed about how they can protect themselves online. Because most of these platforms are free of charge. It’s free to use and then we process your information, usually based on consents.”