Olatunji stated this while delivering a keynote address at an event organised by Vivacity Development on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 81).

Speaking on the theme, “Securing the Digital Frontier: Regulatory Alignment, Data Sovereignty, and Trust as Catalysts for Future Readiness,” the NDPC boss examined the growth of the global digital economy and Africa’s potential in the digital age.

He described Africa as a continent built for the digital century but noted that existing gaps could hinder the continent from fully realising its potential.

Olatunji said regulatory alignment, data sovereignty and trust were the three pillars needed to strengthen Africa’s digital frontier and support sustainable digital development.

He also stressed the importance of having compatible regulatory rules while ensuring that Africa’s data is used to advance the continent’s development.

According to him, data protection and privacy should be viewed not only as regulatory requirements but also as economic infrastructure capable of supporting digital growth and investment.

Olatunji highlighted Nigeria’s progress in its data protection journey and the potential of the country’s digital ecosystem, noting that Nigeria remained open to collaboration with other countries.

He encouraged nations to prioritise data protection and privacy as digital technologies continue to transform economies and societies.

The session was attended by the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, alongside other dignitaries from different parts of the world.