The National
Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission
(NCC) have inaugurated the Data Protection in Telecommunications Working Group
(DPTWG). The joint initiative aims to safeguard the rights of over 164 million
mobile phone users in Nigeria while fostering trust and confidence in the
country’s digital economy.
The working
group, a collaborative effort between the two parastatals under the Federal
Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, is tasked with
identifying innovative solutions, facilitating capacity building, and ensuring
compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023). The launch of the DPTWG
underscores the government’s commitment to creating a secure and
privacy-conscious digital environment for all Nigerians.
During the
inauguration ceremony, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of the
NDPC, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership between the NDPC and NCC. “This
collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to protect the rights of
data subjects in Nigeria,” he said. “The DPTWG will play a critical role
in ensuring that the personal data of over 164 million mobile phone users is
safeguarded, thereby contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy
and national development.”
Dr. Olatunji
noted that the working group’s mandate goes beyond regulatory compliance; it is
about building a culture of data protection and privacy that empowers Nigerians
to trust and fully participate in the digital ecosystem. “Our goal is to
create an environment where data subjects feel secure and confident that their
personal information is being handled responsibly,” he added.
Speaking on
behalf of the Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, Engr.
Oshadami, Executive Commissioner (Technical Services) of the NCC, reaffirmed
the Commission’s dedication to upholding the Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023).
“The NCC is fully committed to ensuring compliance with data protection
regulations in the telecommunications sector,” he said. “We are prepared
to support the DPTWG in achieving its mandate of deepening data protection and
privacy within the industry.”
Engr. Oshadami
highlighted the importance of collaboration between the NDPC and NCC in
addressing the unique challenges of data protection in the telecommunications
sector. “By working together, we can develop innovative solutions that
protect the rights of data subjects while fostering a thriving digital
economy,” he stated.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
