The National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, declared open the capacity-building programme for Data Protection Officers (DPOs) across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), organised by the NDPC in Abuja.

Dr Olatunji emphasised that effective data protection compliance must be driven by organisations through strong systems, processes and human capital. He noted that strategic government institutions process significant volumes of personal data, making it imperative for their DPOs to remain equipped with the knowledge and skills required to prevent, identify and mitigate data breaches.

He further reminded participants that non-compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act), 2023 has consequences. Stressing the importance of understanding their responsibilities and embedding data protection principles across their respective organisations, he urged the DPOs to continually develop their professional capacity, share knowledge with colleagues, foster a strong culture of data protection within their institutions, and serve as effective ambassadors for responsible data practices.