NDPC Boss Calls for Strong Data Protection to Drive Nigeria’s Digital Economy

The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji, has called for stronger data protection and responsible use of emerging technologies to accelerate Nigeria’s digital economy and drive inclusive economic growth.

Dr. Olatunji made the call while delivering the keynote address at the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) Conference 2026, held in Jos, Plateau State. The conference was declared open by the Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.

Speaking on the theme, “Harnessing Digital Innovation and Emerging Technologies for Inclusive Growth and Economic Renaissance,“ the NDPC boss praised the Nigeria Computer Society for its sustained commitment to advancing Nigeria’s digital transformation.

He said digital innovation has become a major driver of economic growth, job creation, increased productivity and global competitiveness, stressing that countries embracing emerging technologies are better positioned to unlock new economic opportunities.

According to him, technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data and other digital innovations are reshaping industries worldwide, with leading global companies already leveraging them to improve efficiency and create value.

Dr. Olatunji described data as the critical infrastructure powering these technologies, noting that protecting personal data and ensuring privacy are essential to sustaining innovation and building public trust in the digital ecosystem.

He highlighted the provisions of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, urging innovators, technology companies and users of emerging technologies to comply with the law while developing digital solutions.

The NDPC chief also outlined Nigeria’s progress in creating an enabling environment for innovation through developmental regulation, saying the country’s digital economy continues to record positive outcomes due to strategic policy implementation.

He stressed that building a sustainable digital economy requires collaboration among government institutions, academia, the private sector, professional bodies and citizens, adding that every stakeholder has a role to play in shaping Nigeria’s digital future.

Other dignitaries at the conference included the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Ishaya Tanko; the President of the Nigeria Computer Society, Professor Muhammad Sirajo Aliyu; and the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Plateau State Information and Communications Technology Development Agency (PICTDA), Engineer Datong Dominic Gwaman.