NDPC Raises Alarm Over Low Data Protection Compliance in Advertising Industry

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has raised concerns over the low level of data protection compliance among advertising agencies in Nigeria, with only 12.3 percent currently compliant with data protection requirements.

The National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, disclosed this while delivering the keynote address at an Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) webinar titled, “Understanding Data Protection and Its Regulatory Framework: Applicability to the Nigerian Advertising Industry.”

Olatunji noted that advertising has evolved from traditional media to a digital-driven industry where personal data increasingly influences advertising decisions, particularly with the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other data-driven technologies.

He urged advertisers to prioritise data protection and privacy by putting appropriate measures in place to safeguard personal information in their custody.

The NDPC boss also highlighted key principles and obligations under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, stressing the need for advertisers to respect the rights of data subjects and understand the consequences of non-compliance.

Olatunji called for improved compliance across the advertising sector and stronger collaboration between the NDPC and ARCON to promote privacy and responsible processing of personal data.