The National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, received the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Epe Division, Lagos State, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr) Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, on a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters.
Dr Olatunji warmly welcomed the monarch and commended his commitment to promoting data protection and privacy awareness, noting that about 65% of Nigerians live in rural areas and that traditional rulers play a vital role in sensitising this demographic. He added that the Commission’s efforts to translate the NDP Act into local languages further support this goal. He also highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to attracting foreign investment, which the NDP Act reinforces.
Dr Olatunji further noted that the Commission’s collaborations with other Data Protection Authorities (DPAs) help safeguard the personal data of Nigerians wherever they reside. He discussed the Commission’s capacity-building initiatives, including the domestication of data protection certifications to develop a pool of Data Protection Officers (DPOs). He emphasised that these initiatives are designed to help Nigerians benefit from the opportunities within the data protection ecosystem, adding that such opportunities could also be extended to the people of Ilara.
In his response, Oba Ogunsanwo commended Dr Olatunji’s leadership, and described the Commission’s work as humanitarian. He acknowledged the importance of data protection awareness, particularly in rural communities where literacy levels are low. The monarch also spoke about the risks of data misuse, which can lead to identity theft, business losses, and even endanger lives.
Oba Ogunsanwo invited Dr Olatunji to speak at the forthcoming National Traditional Rulers’ Forum, where he would engage traditional rulers from across Nigeria. He expressed pride in being a royal father and ambassador of the NDPC, pledging his continued support for the Commission’s mandate and public sensitisation efforts.
