Reported by: Ime Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, has reiterated the importance of effective data protection implementation in driving digital trust and innovation across Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
Dr Olatunji made the remarks during a panel session at the Global Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Summit 2025, currently taking place in Cape Town, South Africa. The session, themed “Country Deep Dives: From Vision to Value,” focused on how countries can translate DPI investments into tangible economic and social benefits.
Speaking on Nigeria’s progress, the NDPC Chief noted that the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (NDP Act), serves as the nation’s legal framework for data protection, stressing that its proper implementation is critical to fostering trust and accountability within the digital ecosystem.
He emphasized the need to maintain a delicate balance between regulation and innovation, citing the Commission’s partnership with the Digital Impact Alliance (DIAL). Through this collaboration, the NDPC has provided regulatory guidance to nine innovators leveraging Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address key socio-economic challenges, including maternal mortality reduction, affordable healthcare delivery, and financial inclusion.
Dr Olatunji also referenced the Commission’s newly developed Data Privacy Impact Assessment (DPIA) template, which guides innovators on ensuring compliance while fostering responsible use of data in emerging technologies.
The session culminated in the launch of a White Paper co-authored by the NDPC and DIAL, titled “Privacy by Design in Early-Stage Innovation: How Data Protection Advances AI-Driven DPI in Nigeria.” The document underscores Nigeria’s proactive approach in embedding privacy principles into digital innovation from inception.
Concluding his address, Dr Olatunji underscored the importance of collaboration and co-creation among stakeholders, noting that regulations should serve as enablers, not barriers, to innovation. He encouraged fellow regulators across the world to adopt similar progressive frameworks that promote both innovation and compliance.
Other panellists at the session included experts and representatives from Brazil, Sri Lanka, and the Republic of Benin, who shared insights on their respective countries’ experiences in developing inclusive and sustainable DPI ecosystems.
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