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Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to digitize its processes, aiming to leverage the benefits of the digital economy.
Speaking at a news conference to commemorate Global Data Privacy Day in Abuja, Tijani emphasized the theme, “Take Control of Your Data.” Data Privacy Day, observed in several countries, including Nigeria, is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting privacy and data protection best practices.
Celebrated as a week in Nigeria from Jan. 28 to Feb. 4, the event aims to enhance global awareness and ensure that individuals are informed about their data rights. Tijani highlighted the interconnected nature of modern gadgets, stressing the importance of protecting the daily data produced by citizens.
He revealed that President Bola Tinubu has mandated the transformation of public services through technology, leading to the digitalization of various public service activities in the coming months and years. Tijani acknowledged potential risks associated with data collection and sharing, emphasizing the need for government agencies to invest in innovative measures to protect data.
The National Data Protection Commission (NDPC) will play a crucial role in ensuring data protection, while Galaxy Backbone will manage the data exchange system in accordance with regulations.
Tijani also called on companies manufacturing digital gadgets to take responsibility for safeguarding the data they collect from individuals. The focus of the week, according to the minister, is on enlightenment due to a significant gap in knowledge regarding data protection.
He pointed out that capacity building is essential as data protection represents a new way of doing things, requiring behavioral change. Stanley Adedeji, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, emphasized the National Assembly’s commitment to ensuring compliance in data collection methods.
Adedeji urged organizations to prioritize compliance and avoid litigation in case of culpability. Recognizing the early stage of development in the data protection ecosystem, he stressed the need for institutions to actively participate in the process.
The National Assembly pledged support through legislation and collaboration to enhance the effectiveness and transparency of the NDPC. Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of NDPC, outlined the commission’s achievements, including the development of a five-year Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan with significant progress made in achieving challenging targets.
Olatunji emphasized the importance of building a globally competitive pool of Data Protection Officers (DPOs) and announced plans for the licensing of an indigenous certification body with global standards to address the shortage of qualified DPOs.
Organizations such as Zenith Bank, National Information Technology Development Agency, and Nigerian Communication Satellite Limited were actively involved in the day’s events.
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