Olatunji: Data Protection Key to Building Trust in AI

The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Dr Vincent Olatunji, has called for stronger data protection and cybersecurity measures as artificial intelligence continues to transform economies and societies.

Olatunji made the call while delivering the first keynote address at the International Cybersecurity Conference 2026, organised by the National Information Technology Development Agency.

Speaking on the theme, “Trust by Design: Data Protection & Privacy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” Olatunji described AI as a transformational force that is reshaping economies, societies and human lives.

He, however, warned that the rapid adoption of AI also comes with risks, including an expanded cyberattack surface, privacy violations and the misuse of personal data.

The NDPC boss said cybersecurity and data protection must remain non-negotiable pillars of an AI-driven economy and the delivery of digital public services.

According to him, strong protection of personal data is essential to building trust among citizens, users, investors and business partners.

Olatunji stressed that responsible use of AI requires trust to be built into every stage of its development and deployment through privacy, security, safety and accountability.

He said building trust in AI and the wider digital ecosystem is a shared responsibility involving regulators, technology developers, organisations, citizens and academic institutions.

The NDPC chief called for greater collaboration and responsible innovation while urging stakeholders to uphold data protection principles and respect the rights of data subjects.

The conference, organised under the leadership of NITDA Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, brought together stakeholders from Nigeria and other countries.

Among those present were the Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu; Chairman of the House Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Hon. Adedeji Stanley Olajide; and Senator Momo T. Cyrus of Liberia, who chairs the country’s Defence, Intelligence and Security Committee.