The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has marked Global Privacy Day with a press conference that also signalled the commencement of the 2026 National Privacy Week, against the backdrop of rising concerns over data protection in an era of rapid technological advancement.
The week-long programme is themed “Privacy in the Age of Emerging Technologies: Trust, Ethics, and Innovation,” underscoring growing policy and regulatory attention on how artificial intelligence, digital platforms, and other emerging technologies are reshaping data use, risk, and governance.
During the event, the NDPC presented the National Data Protection Champion Award to the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, in recognition of his contributions to advancing Nigeria’s data protection and privacy agenda.
Providing an ecosystem briefing, the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, explained that the National Privacy Week is intended to move conversations on privacy beyond regulatory compliance and into broader public awareness.
“The primary objective of the National Privacy Week is to deepen awareness of data protection and privacy across the country,” Olatunji said.
He outlined the progress of Nigeria’s evolving data protection ecosystem, noting that the sector has recorded significant economic and social impact since the establishment of the Commission. According to him, the NDPC has contributed to the creation of over 23,000 jobs, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and supported the growth of a data protection ecosystem valued at more than ₦16.2 billion.
NDPC Sets 2026 Priorities, Earns Global Recognition
Olatunji also highlighted the Commission’s strategic priorities for 2026, which include strengthening enforcement mechanisms, expanding capacity across both public and private sectors, and positioning Nigeria to effectively address privacy challenges arising from emerging technologies.
In his remarks, Dr. Tijani commended the leadership of the NDPC, describing the Commission as a reference point within the global data protection community.
“Under Dr. Olatunji’s visionary leadership, the Commission has emerged as a global leader in the data protection and privacy ecosystem,” Tijani said.
He noted that the NDPC has successfully aligned Nigeria’s data protection framework with international best practices while remaining responsive to the country’s unique digital realities and socio-economic context.
“The NDPC continues to set standards that balance innovation with trust and ethics, which is critical as Nigeria’s digital economy continues to expand,” the minister added.
Dr. Olatunji formally presented the National Data Privacy Champion Award to the minister, citing his sustained policy support and contributions to strengthening privacy rights and institutional capacity in Nigeria.
The event was attended by senior government officials and heads of key digital and communications agencies, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Engr. Nadungu Gagare; the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission, Mr. Charles Ebuebu; as well as the Chief Executive Officers of NIPOST, NIGCOMSAT, and the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF).
As Nigeria’s digital footprint continues to expand, the 2026 National Privacy Week is expected to provide a critical platform for addressing the policy, ethical, and institutional issues shaping trust, accountability, and governance in the country’s data-driven future.
Stay informed on Nigeria’s evolving data protection landscape and digital policy developments. Read more insights at https://louisaolaniyi.com.ng/
