NDPC Warns MDAs to Strengthen Protection of Citizens’ Personal Data

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission has urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies to strengthen measures for protecting citizens’ personal data, warning that data protection should be the responsibility of all personnel involved in processing sensitive information.

The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, made the call while declaring open a data protection training programme for staff of MDAs, organised by the Commission in partnership with Meta.

Olatunji said data protection training should not be restricted to Data Protection Officers, noting that other government personnel involved in collecting and processing citizens’ personal data also need adequate knowledge of data protection principles.

He said MDAs process significant amounts of personal data belonging to citizens, making it necessary for government institutions to put appropriate safeguards in place.

The NDPC boss also highlighted opportunities within Nigeria’s growing data protection ecosystem, urging participants to consider careers as Data Protection Officers or establish Data Protection Compliance Organisations to provide professional services.

He noted that the growing demand for data protection professionals globally could provide participants with additional career opportunities, including after retirement.

The training covers areas including the day-to-day handling of citizens’ data, the principles and rights of citizens, and how to recognise and report data protection problems.

Olatunji urged participants to actively engage in the programme and apply the knowledge gained in their respective organisations.

He also encouraged them to sensitise their colleagues, saying broader awareness would help strengthen the culture of data protection across government institutions.