NDPC Calls for Data Protection Rules That Support Digital Investment in Africa

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has called for regulatory frameworks that protect personal data while creating an enabling environment for digital infrastructure investment and innovation across Africa.

The Commission made the call at the International Telecoms Week (ITW) and Datacloud Africa 2026 held in Nairobi, Kenya, where the National Commissioner/Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, was represented by the Head of Compliance Services Management, Mrs Caroline Okafor.

Okafor participated in two high-level panel sessions focusing on regulation, digital infrastructure and connectivity investment, with discussions centred on the relationship between data protection, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure and investment in Africa’s growing digital economy.

Speaking at the Regulatory Roundtable titled, “Regulation That Builds: Aligning Policy and Digital Infrastructure Investment Priorities,” Okafor stressed the need for governments to develop policies that encourage cross-border digital infrastructure and investment.

She said effective regulation should build trust without creating unnecessary barriers for investors and infrastructure providers.

According to her, a risk-based approach to data protection, Privacy by Design and clear, transparent and predictable regulatory requirements are important to give investors certainty when making long-term investments in digital infrastructure.

During the second panel session, Okafor highlighted the importance of sector-specific guidelines, continuous sensitisation and public awareness to improve compliance and strengthen trust across the digital ecosystem.

She stressed that regulation should not “shut the door” on investment but should provide clear pathways for businesses to innovate and invest responsibly while protecting the rights and privacy of data subjects.

The NDPC said its participation at ITW Africa 2026 further demonstrated its commitment to trusted digital transformation, responsible investment and regulatory approaches that protect data subjects while supporting innovation, connectivity and sustainable digital growth across Africa.