Nigeria Must Adopt Unified National Approach to Data Privacy to Mitigate Risks, Safeguard Citizens’ Information – Expert  

Mary Nnah
 
 
Nigeria’s digital revolution is facing a critical juncture as experts warn that the country’s rapid adoption of emerging technologies is outpacing its data protection measures.

Onotole Erumusele, a seasoned expert in risk management and cybersecurity, has sounded the alarm, calling for a unified national approach to data privacy to mitigate risks and safeguard citizens’ information.
 
Nigeria’s rapid adoption of technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming every sector, from digital banking to telemedicine and innovative city initiatives. However, this progress is accompanied by increased cyber threats, data breaches, and public privacy concerns.
 
Erumusele noted that Nigeria has a chance to leap into a secure, data-centric future, but that leap must be grounded in solid strategies that safeguard citizens’ information and critical infrastructure. “The real danger isn’t just external attacks, but our lack of a unified national approach to data privacy,” he warned, adding. “We can’t let innovation race ahead of regulation.”
 
He noted that as international standards like the GDPR and California’s CCPA raise the bar for data privacy, Nigeria must act swiftly to strengthen its regulatory landscape. While the Nigerian Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) marks progress, enforcement and awareness remain insufficient. Erumusele recommended creating a National Data Governance Strategy, aligning privacy, policy, and technology standards across sectors, clearly defining ownership, access rights, and compliance expectations.
 
Additionally, he suggests enhancing NDPR and regulatory oversight, expanding NDPR to cover emerging tech and cross-border data handling, empowering data protection authorities with technical expertise and actual enforcement capabilities, and building Cybersecurity Capacity Nationwide through national training programs and education. This includes launching national training programs for cybersecurity talent and integrating cybersecurity and privacy education into schools and public sector training.
 
Erumusele, a professional with experience in advising governments and private sector organisations, specialising in secure digital transformation, data governance, compliance, and supply chain management,  is committed to responsible and ethical technology use in emerging markets.
 
For him, the digital economy presents massive potential for businesses, especially startups and SMEs, but trust remains the foundation. Companies must prioritise data protection through practices like “privacy by design” and routine risk assessments.
Erumusele emphasised the need for cross-sector collaboration, sharing tools, intelligence, and best practices to build collective cyber resilience.
 
Public sector institutions must model best practices in cybersecurity, ensuring that government platforms are both modern and secure. “Government systems should be the benchmark for data protection”, Erumusele asserted.
Noting, “People must feel safe interacting with e-government platforms.” “Key practices like encryption, continuous monitoring, and regular system audits can protect national infrastructure and boost public trust.”
 
“Data is like oil,” Erumusele said, adding, “But without trusted frameworks and strong safeguards, it can quickly become a volatile liability.”
Erumusele suggested further that Nigeria’s success in the digital era hinges on its ability to balance bold innovation with robust privacy protections.
“Decisions made today will shape the digital experiences of future generations. With strong laws, strategic partnerships, and investment in cybersecurity infrastructure, Nigeria can become a leading example of secure digital development in Africa, where data protection is as valuable as digital progress”, he added.