The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has marked Global Privacy Day 2026 with a press conference that also officially kicked off the 2026 National Privacy Week, themed “Privacy in the Age of Emerging Technologies: Trust, Ethics, and Innovation.”
The event convened key players from government and Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, reflecting the country’s growing focus on data protection, privacy rights, and responsible digital innovation.
A major highlight of the briefing was the presentation of the National Data Protection Champion Award to the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, in recognition of his leadership and sustained support for Nigeria’s data protection and privacy agenda. The award was presented by the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, who described the Minister as a strong advocate for building a trusted and resilient digital economy.
In his ecosystem briefing, Dr Olatunji said the National Privacy Week initiative is designed to deepen public awareness of data protection obligations and citizens’ privacy rights across the country. He outlined key milestones recorded by the Commission, including the creation of over 23,000 jobs in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and the expansion of Nigeria’s data protection ecosystem to a value exceeding ₦16.2 billion. He also highlighted the NDPC’s strategic priorities and programmes for 2026.
Speaking at the event, Dr Tijani praised Dr Olatunji’s leadership, noting that the NDPC has helped position Nigeria as a reference point in global data protection and privacy governance. According to the Minister, the Commission has successfully aligned Nigeria’s data protection framework with international best practices while adapting them to the country’s unique digital, social, and economic context.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Engr. Nadungu Gagare; the Director-General and CEO of the National Broadcasting Commission, Mr Charles Ebuebu; and the chief executives of NIPOST, NIGCOMSAT, and the Universal Service Provision Fund, among others.
Global Privacy Day, also known as Data Protection Day, is observed annually on January 28. In Nigeria, it formed part of National Privacy Week 2026, held from January 28 to February 4, with the NDPC serving as the national coordinating body. During the week, private sector organisations, civil society groups, and non-governmental organisations hosted events and published thought leadership articles to reinforce the importance of protecting personal data in an increasingly digital society.
The observance serves as a global call to action, highlighting the value of personal data and the need to promote strong privacy and data protection practices across societies.
