Nigeria Highlights Digital Infrastructure, Data Protection at UNGA 81 Events

Nigeria Highlights Digital Infrastructure, Data Protection at UNGA 81 Events

Nigeria has highlighted its progress in digital infrastructure and sustainable development at a series of high-level events held in New York on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 81).

The engagements brought together state governors, federal ministers and heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies, with discussions focusing on digital inclusion, social protection, responsible data governance and sustainable development.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, highlighted ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to expand Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, particularly in underserved communities.

Tijani noted that broadband connectivity is being extended to previously underserved areas, while the BRIDGE project is expected to provide access to more than 20 million Nigerians.

At a high-level event titled, “Leaving No One Behind: Leveraging Dynamic Social Register for Shock Response, Safety Nets, and SDG Acceleration,” the National Commissioner/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, stressed the importance of responsible data governance in social protection programmes.

Olatunji said the use of personal data to identify beneficiaries, manage social registers and deliver public services must be guided by the safeguards provided under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023.

He noted that as government increasingly adopts digital systems and data-driven interventions, protecting citizens’ personal information remains essential to maintaining public confidence in such programmes.

Speaking on “Data Protection in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” the NDPC chief urged stakeholders to embed safety, privacy and accountability in the development and deployment of emerging technologies.

He also called for the development of African datasets with appropriate rights and safeguards, stronger connections between African digital talent and global standards and markets, as well as investment in secure digital infrastructure.

Olatunji reaffirmed the NDPC’s commitment to ensuring that personal data is processed lawfully, fairly, transparently and securely.

The engagements formed part of Nigeria’s participation in high-level discussions surrounding UNGA 81, where digital transformation, inclusive development and the Sustainable Development Goals remain key areas of focus.

Nigeria Highlights Digital Infrastructure, Data Protection at UNGA 81 Events