The Federal Government has introduced the Nigeria Virtual Privacy Academy, a new digital platform aimed at enhancing data protection and privacy practices within both the public and private sectors.
The announcement was made by Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, at the 8th annual conference of the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA), which commenced in Abuja on Tuesday.
Strengthening Data Protection Capabilities
During his address, Dr. Tijani emphasized that the academy is an integral part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to leverage the digital economy. It aims to equip key stakeholders with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of data governance.
“As we digitize government services, expand digital trade corridors, and scale digital identity platforms, data becomes the backbone, and data protection, the shield,” Tijani noted.
Building Trust in Digital Platforms
The academy is designed to provide Nigerians with virtual access to practical training on data protection principles and cyber identity, both of which are essential to building trust in digital platforms. This initiative is expected to boost the confidence of both businesses and individuals in the country’s digital infrastructure.
Additionally, the Minister announced the creation of a Digital Trade Desk, a one-stop platform that will assist Nigerian tech-enabled businesses in accessing global markets and expanding digital exports.
Nigeria’s Commitment to Data Protection
Representing the Vice President, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia echoed the nation’s commitment to the full implementation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023. He described data as more than just a digital asset, calling it “a human story told in numbers” and a vital tool for building economic trust.
“As Africa expands its digital exchanges, the ability to share data securely and lawfully will determine how well we thrive in the global economy,” the Vice President noted.
He also called on other African nations to use the NADPA platform to establish a continental consensus on data governance that respects individual rights while promoting shared values.
Milestones in Data Governance
In his address, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), highlighted Nigeria’s notable achievements in the realm of data governance. He revealed that the NDPC had conducted over 5,000 compliance assessments, initiated 223 investigations, and assisted 12 organizations through remediation processes.
Within just two years, the Commission has generated more than $1.2 million in revenue from registration, audit filings, and compliance fees.
Dr. Olatunji also mentioned that Nigeria had signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with data protection authorities across Africa, creating a regulatory environment that fosters innovation while safeguarding citizens’ privacy.
A Continental Push for Strong Data Protection
The three-day NADPA conference, themed “Balancing Innovation in Africa: Data Protection and Privacy in Emerging Technologies,” brought together representatives from over 30 African countries, as well as participants from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the U.S.
Ms. Inga Stefanowicz, Head of Green and Digital Economy at the European Union Delegation to Nigeria, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Africa’s data protection frameworks.
Mr. Iro Adamou, Chairperson of NADPA, represented by Mrs. Immaculate Kassiat, emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in protecting personal data as Africa’s digital landscape rapidly evolves.
