The Federal Government of Nigeria is taking steps to digitize all public services to benefit from the digital economy and safeguard citizens’ data, according to the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.
During a press conference marking Global Data Privacy Day, on Sunday, Tijani mentioned that President Bola Tinubu has given the mandate to transform public services with technology.
In his statement, the minister highlighted the importance of data protection in a digitalized economy, stating, “A lot of gadgets we use today are interconnected, which means the data we are producing daily must be protected, and the people producing it too being enlightened.”
He emphasized the need for government agencies to invest in innovative ways to protect data.
Tijani mentioned that the Nigeria Data Protection Commission would play a crucial role in protecting citizens’ data, and Galaxy Backbone would assist in managing the data exchange system while ensuring compliance with regulations.
The minister also called on companies producing digital gadgets to ensure the security of the data they collect.
During the conference, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Stanley Adedeji, pledged that the National Assembly would ensure compliance in its data collection processes.
He urged organizations to be compliant and avoid litigation when found culpable, emphasizing the importance of capacity building and attitudinal change regarding data privacy.
The National Commissioner of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, provided insights into the commission’s activities, stating that it had developed a five-year Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan.
Olatunji mentioned the commission’s focus on building a globally competitive pool of Data Protection Officers and outlined plans for licensing an indigenous certification body to meet data protection obligations.
Data Privacy Day observed globally aims to raise awareness about privacy and data protection best practices.
In Nigeria, DPD is celebrated as a week from January 28 to February 4, fostering awareness and ensuring that data subjects are informed about their rights.
