The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has commenced its National Privacy Week with a high-profile press conference marking the 2025 Global Privacy Day. At the event, the National Commissioner and CEO, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, delivered a keynote address highlighting the Commission’s progress in safeguarding personal data and strengthening privacy rights across the country.
During his address, Dr. Olatunji outlined the NDPC’s achievements over the past year, emphasizing its role as a leading data protection authority in Africa. He noted that the Commission’s strategic roadmap had not only enhanced data privacy but also bolstered Nigeria’s position on the global stage.
“Our commitment to ensuring data protection and privacy is not only gaining global recognition but also shaping Nigeria’s position as a leader in the African data protection ecosystem,” he stated.
A major highlight of the event was the NDPC’s commitment to job creation, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Dr. Olatunji announced the launch of the National Certification Program for Data Protection Officers, a domestic initiative aimed at creating over 500,000 jobs within the country’s data protection and privacy ecosystem.
“This certification program will empower young Nigerians with the skills required to become Data Protection Officers, ensuring local expertise and enhancing compliance across industries,” he added.
As part of the event, the NDPC officially launched its Annual Report and the maiden edition of its Journal on Data Protection and Privacy. The Annual Report provides a comprehensive review of the Commission’s regulatory strides, policy implementations, and capacity-building initiatives over the past year. Meanwhile, the Journal offers a platform for researchers, academics, and industry experts to share insights and studies on emerging trends in data protection.
The press conference concluded with a renewed call for stakeholder collaboration to strengthen data privacy awareness and ensure compliance with Nigeria’s data protection regulations.
