NDPC Seeks Stakeholders’ Input on Data Protection Framework for Key Sectors
The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Vincent Olatunji, has underscored the importance of stakeholder collaboration in developing a robust data protection and privacy framework for Nigeria’s financial, hospitality, and telecommunications sectors.
Dr. Olatunji made the remarks while delivering the keynote address at a stakeholder engagement forum on the development of sector-specific Data Protection and Privacy Frameworks.
According to him, stakeholder participation remains critical to effective policy formulation and implementation, noting that regulators, policymakers, industry leaders, academia, and other relevant groups play vital roles in shaping practical and sustainable regulations.
He explained that the NDPC has consistently prioritised stakeholder consultations in its rule-making processes, recalling that contributions from various sectors were instrumental in the development of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 and the General Application and Implementation Directive (GAID).
Dr. Olatunji stated that the Commission recognised the need for sector-specific compliance guidelines under the provisions of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, given the broad framework established by the legislation across different industries.
He noted that experts and stakeholders were invited to contribute their knowledge and practical experience to ensure that the proposed guidelines are realistic, proportionate, enforceable, and responsive to the unique challenges within each sector.
The engagement featured presentations from leading experts, including the Chair of the African Union Cyber Security Expert Group, Abdul-Hakeem Ajijola; the Chief Executive Officer of Management Edge Limited, Ayodeji Abitogun; and financial consultant, Rufus Olowe.
Other participants included the President of the Data Knowledge Information Privacy Protection Initiative, Tokunbo Smith, and the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Data Protection Compliance Organisations of Nigeria, Ivan Anya, alongside representatives from government agencies, private sector organisations, and the data protection community.
The initiative forms part of the NDPC’s broader efforts to strengthen data privacy compliance, enhance consumer protection, and promote responsible data governance across Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
NDPC Seeks Stakeholders’ Input on Data Protection Framework for Key Sectors