As part of activities marking the translation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (NDP Act) into Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba, the National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, joined stakeholders at the unveiling ceremony of the Hausa version in Kano State.

In his opening remarks, Dr Olatunji commended Meta Inc. for partnering with the Commission on the translations, and the Kano State Government for its support. He highlighted the benefits of the initiative and used the opportunity to educate participants on the importance of data protection and privacy, emphasizing why every Nigerian should be aware of their rights as guaranteed by the NDP Act, 2023.

Dr. Olatunji noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing the President’s prompt signing of the NDP Act in 2023 as a clear demonstration of his commitment to digital rights. He further urged that the Hausa translation be widely distributed across all relevant communities so that every Hausa reader can access, read, and understand the provisions of the law as well as the opportunities within the data protection and privacy ecosystem.

Dignitaries at the event included the Emir of Kano, His Highness Muhammadu Sanusi, represented by the Dan Malikin Kano, Comrade Auwal Mudi Yakasai; the Secretary to the State Government, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties Cabinet Office, Hajiya Aisha Kailani; and the Head of Civil Service, Hajiya Ladidi Garko, among others.

Representatives from the Kano State digital ecosystem, the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), Corps members, Women association and Kano Youths were also in attendance.