CHIEF OLATUNJI, HEAD OF NDPC, EMPHASIZES THE IMPORTANCE OF DATA PROTECTION IN THE DIGITAL ECONOMY.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), highlighted the importance of data protection in the digital economy during the recent pre-launch of the National Privacy Awareness Campaign.
Addressing attendees at the ’50 Most Valuable Personalities in Nigeria’s Digital Economy Conference & Award’ in Lagos, Olatunji stressed the crucial role data protection plays in fostering a thriving digital economy.
He emphasized NDPC’s commitment to raising awareness among citizens about data protection principles, essential for ensuring compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023.
“We firmly believe that awareness is a pre-condition for compliance and the ability of all operators including Licensed DPCOs to effectively do their tasks as prescribed by the law – Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023. Therefore, I want to recommend the NSDPA to reach out for support of associations such as ALDAPCON as critical stakeholders in the data protection ecosystem.
“What we expect in the weeks and months ahead is that the message of data protection will begin to run deep in corporate Nigeria and rural settlements and semi-urban centres across the country,” he said.
The National Privacy Awareness Campaign is anchored by the Nigerian Stakeholders for Data Protection Awareness (NSDPA).
The pre-launch ceremony, held as part of the highlights of the 50 MVPS event, attracted stakeholders from various sectors, including the leadership and members of prominent associations such as the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), and the Association of Licensed Data Protection Organizations of Nigeria (ALDAPCON).
Olatunji highlighted the necessity of awareness as a precursor to compliance, stressing the importance of collaboration with critical stakeholders like ALDAPCON to enhance data protection practices across corporate Nigeria and local communities.
Sani Ahmed Yaro, Zonal Coordinator of the Nigerian Stakeholders for Data Protection Awareness (NSDPA), shared plans for a national campaign aimed at educating every Nigerian on data privacy. He was represented by Delmwa Gogwim, a senior executive of the NSDPA.
Ivan Anya, Chairman of ALDAPCON, echoed similar sentiments, affirming the pivotal role of awareness in optimizing the functions of licensed Data Protection Compliance Organizations (DPCOs).
Nigeria’s digital economy and opportunities for young people
Furthermore, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda presented insights on Nigeria’s digital economy and opportunities for young people. He highlighted the transformative potential of emerging technologies like the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and robotics in revolutionizing various sectors.
Prof. Yilwatda emphasized the need for intentional preparation of Nigerian youths for the vast opportunities in the digital economy.
Prof. Yilwatda said Nigeria can unlock the transformative power of its digital economy and position itself as a global leader in this rapidly evolving space by investing in youths and digital infrastructures.
‘Myths and Realities of Nigerian Digital Economy’
Additionally, Ike Nnamani, CEO of Digital Realty Nigeria, challenged policymakers and stakeholders to debunk myths surrounding the Nigerian digital economy. He identified key misconceptions, including exaggerated claims about Nigeria’s data center market and its position in Africa’s digital landscape.
Nnamani acknowledged the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy but pointed out misconceptions that could hinder progress. He identified five myths associated with the country’s digital economy.
The 50MVPs event, organized by IT Edge News, serves as a platform to address sectoral challenges, honor industry pioneers, and recognize individuals driving digital innovation in Nigeria.
Source: Techeconomy
