The National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, was at the office of the new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Mr Rafiu Adeladan, to brief him on the Commission’s mandate.
Dr Olatunji congratulated Mr Adeladan, and wished him a successful tenure. He then walked Mr Adeladan through the Commission’s mandate, beginning with the provision of Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution, progressing through to the Presidential Directive that established the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau, and culminating in the creation of the NDPC following the signing of the Nigeria Data Protection Act by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, two weeks after his assumption of office — demonstrating his interest in the growth of digitalisation as well as data protection and privacy.
Dr Olatunji spoke extensively about the NDPC’s achievements locally and internationally, as well as the benefits the Commission brings to Nigeria, particularly in enhancing the global competitiveness of Nigerian businesses. He added that awareness and compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act are relatively low. He enumerated the challenges faced by the Commission, including funding and shortage of experts. He also highlighted the opportunities in the ecosystem, particularly in the area of job creation.
In his response, Mr Adeladan commended Dr Olatunji for the significant progress made in a short time. He acknowledged the critical importance of data protection and privacy in today’s world, as well as the challenges raised by Dr Olatunji. He pledged his support for the NDPC in delivering its mandate in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.
