The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has embarked on a journey of cooperation with the Office of the Information Commissioner (OIC) in the United Kingdom. The NDPC delegation, led by its National Commissioner, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, recently conducted a study visit to the OIC’s offices in London and Wilmslow, UK, aimed at forging a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance the implementation of data protection laws.
During the visit, which took place on September 28th and 29th, 2023, the NDPC team had the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the functioning of a fully-fledged data protection authority. Dr. Olatunji, representing Nigeria, shared the nation’s experiences and innovative approaches to implementing the Nigeria Data Protection Act of 2023.
The NDPC delegation was warmly received by Stephen Bonner, the Deputy Commissioner for Regulatory Supervision at the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
Key areas of discussion during the visit included policies and statutory guidelines, data protection impact assessment, children’s privacy data, data controllers’ registration and associated fees, enforcement mechanisms, investigations, and penalties related to data protection breaches.
Both authorities expressed a commitment to further bilateral consultations with the aim of developing a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding that would foster a deeper exchange of knowledge and expertise in the realm of data privacy between these two data protection authorities.
Mr. Solomon Odole, the ID4D Project Coordinator, also took part in these meetings as part of the ID4D’s support towards the establishment of the Commission. He emphasized the significance of forging strong ties with data protection authorities in other countries to facilitate secure data flows.
This collaborative effort between the Nigeria Data Protection Commission and the UK’s Office of the Information Commissioner holds great promise for strengthening data protection measures on an international scale. It highlights the commitment of both nations to safeguarding individuals’ data and ensuring the responsible use of personal information in the digital age. Further updates on this collaboration are expected as the Memorandum of Understanding takes shape and implementation efforts progress.
