The National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, delivered the keynote address at the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) webinar titled “Understanding Data Protection and Its Regulatory Framework: Applicability to the Nigerian Advertising Industry,” while the Director-General of ARCON, Dr Olalekan Fadolapo, delivered the welcome address.

Dr Olatunji commended Dr Fadolapo for bringing together members of ARCON and experts in the advertising industry to discuss data protection and privacy. He briefly highlighted the evolution of the advertising industry, noting its transition from traditional media to the digital era. He emphasised that the industry has now entered a period where data has become a key driver of advertising decisions, particularly with the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other data-driven technologies.

Dr Olatunji therefore stressed the need for advertisers to prioritise data protection and privacy and put appropriate measures in place to safeguard personal data in their custody. He also took participants through key data protection principles and obligations that advertisers are required to understand and observe under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (NDP Act). He highlighted the consequences of non-compliance and the importance of ensuring that data subjects are able to exercise their rights.

The National Commissioner/CEO particularly called for improved compliance among advertising agencies, noting that only 12.3% are currently compliant. He also called for stronger collaboration and increased engagement between the NDPC and ARCON to deepen the culture of privacy and responsible data processing within the advertising sector.

The session provided participants with valuable insights into the growing intersection of advertising, artificial intelligence, and data protection, while reinforcing the importance of responsible data processing and regulatory compliance within the advertising industry.