The Acting Deputy Chief of Mission for the United States in Nigeria, Christine Harbaugh, has affirmed that Nigeria’s recent admission as an associate member of the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) Forum will help attract foreign investment by reinforcing trust in the country’s digital economy.
Harbaugh made this statement at the 2025 African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA/NAPDP) Conference and Annual General Meeting held in Abuja.
She emphasized that Nigeria’s participation in the CBPR Forum enhances its appeal as a destination for digital business, stating:
“By joining the Global Forum, Nigeria becomes part of an international coalition committed to minimizing data protection risks and ensuring that strong privacy safeguards follow data wherever it flows. This commitment strengthens Nigeria’s image as a dependable partner in the global digital landscape.”
Harbaugh also noted that the decision would open new commercial opportunities between the U.S. and Nigeria.
“With around 60% of Nigerian startups incorporated in the United States, improved cross-border data flow capabilities will allow these businesses to better serve both U.S. and Nigerian markets, accelerating digital trade between our countries.”
She added, “By aligning with globally recognized standards for data protection, Nigeria is cultivating a digital ecosystem primed for investment and international collaboration. U.S. companies, renowned for their technological innovation, will find a more conducive and secure environment to operate in Nigeria.”
Describing Nigeria’s CBPR Forum membership as a landmark achievement, Harbaugh stated:
“This move underscores Nigeria’s dedication to digital transformation and sustainable economic growth. By joining as an associate member, Nigeria is signaling to the world that it is open for digital business.”
She praised Nigeria’s ongoing strides in digital development, highlighting the growing technology sector and increasing innovation from both startups and established firms.
“In recent years, Nigeria has made significant progress in embracing digital change. Aligning with the CBPR Forum solidifies the country’s standing as a growing hub for digital enterprise and innovation.”
Harbaugh also addressed broader implications of the membership, noting that:
“This step not only enhances data protection for U.S. and Nigerian citizens but also builds trust with global partners. Systems that disregard privacy in favor of rigid control can erode public trust and compromise democratic values.”
In his remarks, the National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji, outlined the motivations behind Nigeria’s application to join the CBPR Forum.
He explained, “Our aim in joining the CBPR Forum as an associate member is to observe international accountability mechanisms for data transfers and enable local Data Protection Compliance Organisations (DPCOs) to leverage these frameworks.”
Dr. Olatunji further stated that the membership would provide Nigerian businesses with broader options for secure cross-border data transfers while ensuring full implementation of the data protection safeguards enshrined in the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA).
