The National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, delivered the Keynote Address at the Nigeria eGovernment Summit 2026 on the theme, “Mainstreaming Technologies in Nigeria Election Management: The Data Protection Imperative.”

In his address, Dr Olatunji commended the organisers for their sustained efforts in organising the Summit over the years, noting that the 2026 edition marks the 8th edition of the event. Beginning with the evolution from manual processes to BVAS, IReV and future digital innovations, he highlighted how technology has improved efficiency, transparency and credibility. He added, however, that every technological advancement also increases the volume of personal and biometric data collected, making responsible data governance essential to sustaining public trust and confidence in democratic processes.

Dr Olatunji emphasised that every stage of the electoral process leaves a data trail and therefore creates both opportunities and risks. While election technologies have reduced voter impersonation, multiple registrations and accreditation delays, they also introduce vulnerabilities such as data breaches, voter profiling, third-party risks and loss of trust. He noted that technological success alone is insufficient: citizens must trust that systems are secure, data is protected and results are authentic for elections to retain legitimacy.

Drawing on the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (NDP Act), Dr Olatunji noted that the Commission is working closely with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that voters’ personal and sensitive data are well protected. He noted that through legislative reforms, Data Privacy Impact Assessments (DPIAs), independent audits, public awareness, capacity building and shared responsibility among stakeholders, Nigeria can build a trusted digital electoral ecosystem that safeguards citizens’ rights while strengthening democratic governance ahead of 2027 and beyond.