NDPC Partners with Enioluwa Adeoluwa to Boost Data Protection Awareness Among Nigerians
Over 40 million Nigerians spend an average of six hours daily on social media, and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) is making strides to protect their data privacy.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of the NDPC, announced this figure at the signing of a six-month Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Commission and social media influencer Enioluwa Adeoluwa, aimed at raising awareness about data protection.
Olatunji highlighted the growing need for data privacy and the risks associated with personal information on social platforms.
“With more than 40 million Nigerians using social media daily, often unaware of how delicate the information they provide is, we have a responsibility to protect them,” he stated.
The NDPC has been working to educate Nigerians on data protection since the 2022 enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA), although Dr. Olatunji acknowledged there remains a gap, especially in reaching rural communities.
In a move to expand this outreach, the NDPC has enlisted Enioluwa Adeoluwa, who will work with the agency to amplify its message on the importance of safeguarding personal data.
With about 65 million Nigerians—most of whom are youth—actively engaging on social media for both personal and business purposes, this partnership aims to leverage popular platforms to reach a larger audience.
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“We have over 65 million Nigerians on social media platforms, and it’s critical we use these platforms to educate them on data protection,” Dr. Olatunji explained.
Adeoluwa expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing that his motivation is rooted in national interest rather than financial incentives. “This is about national progress and making Nigeria safer online,” he said.
The MoU will be evaluated after six months to determine its success in promoting data protection awareness among social media users.
The Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023) defines personal information as any data that identifies an individual directly or indirectly, mandating its protection to prevent misuse. Privacy rights are embedded within the Nigerian Constitution, which seeks to protect citizens’ personal information—ranging from household details to electronic communications—from theft, corruption, and other digital threats.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, joined the conversation, urging Nigerians to be mindful of the information they share online.
“As technology becomes mainstream, not everyone understands how to manage their data responsibly,” he warned, noting that careless posting could expose users to identity theft, cyber scams, and other digital crimes.
Tijani also encouraged data protection officers (DPOs) to help the government spread awareness, emphasizing the importance of protecting users in an increasingly digital society. The partnership between the NDPC and Adeoluwa is set to play a pivotal role in educating Nigerians on these crucial data protection issues.
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