The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has strongly criticized Meta’s reported threat to exit the Nigerian market following a court ruling that upheld a $220 million fine imposed on the tech giant for repeated violations of local consumer and data protection laws.

In a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, the Commission described Meta’s reaction as a “calculated move aimed at inducing negative public reaction and potentially pressuring the FCCPC to reconsider its decision.”

The fine stems from an extensive investigation by the FCCPC into Meta Platforms and its subsidiary WhatsApp (referred to as “Meta Parties”), which revealed multiple and repeated violations of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) and the Nigerian Data Protection Regulation (NDPR).

According to the FCCPC, Meta infringed on Nigerian users’ rights by denying them control over their personal data, transferring and sharing user information without authorization, and implementing discriminatory practices compared to users in other jurisdictions. The Commission also accused the company of abusing its dominant market position by imposing unfair privacy policies.

“Meta Parties engaged in acts that exploited Nigerian consumers, contrary to global standards,” the Commission said.

Highlighting similar global incidents, the FCCPC pointed out that Meta had previously paid penalties amounting to $1.5 billion in Texas and $1.3 billion in the European Union for related data privacy breaches. “In other countries like India, South Korea, France, and Australia, Meta complied without resorting to threats. It is only in Nigeria that the company is now threatening to exit,” the statement added.

The Commission maintained that Meta’s threat to suspend operations in Nigeria is “blackmail” and emphasized that it does not exempt the company from the legal consequences of its actions.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the FCCPC remains committed to its pursuit of consumer protection and data privacy towards ensuring a fairer digital market in Nigeria,” the statement said.

Following a recent ruling by the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal affirming FCCPC’s order, Meta is now mandated to comply with Nigerian laws, cease exploitative practices, and align its operations with international standards.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, had warned it may suspend operations in Nigeria due to what it called “unrealistic” regulatory demands and combined fines nearing $290 million from three federal agencies. The warning came after the company’s failed legal challenge to the FCCPC’s decision, with the imposed penalties due by the end of June 2025.

The Commission first raised concerns in July 2024, when it accused Meta of breaching local data privacy and consumer protection laws through the operations of Facebook and WhatsApp.

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By Shuaib S. Agaka

At Technovate Fest 2024, Kashifu Inuwa, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), outlined Nigeria’s two-fold approach to adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI).

He emphasized NITDA’s commitment to both promoting AI adoption and ensuring its responsible and ethical use across various sectors. The approach involves, first, investing in capacity building to ensure AI literacy spreads throughout society, and second, developing regulatory frameworks that prioritize transparency, data privacy, and cybersecurity in AI development.

The landscape of AI adoption in Africa is diverse and evolving. Several countries have begun to recognize the transformative potential of AI, incorporating it into national strategies and private-sector innovation. Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, and Egypt are often seen as the continent’s forerunners in AI development, each taking unique approaches.

For example, South Africa has established several AI research hubs, focusing on using AI in areas like healthcare, agriculture, and fintech. Kenya, leveraging its strong digital innovation ecosystem, is using AI in mobile financial services and agriculture as well, while Egypt is integrating AI into public administration and education. Despite these advances, AI adoption remains uneven across the continent, largely due to varying levels of economic development and digital orientation.

Over the years, Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has adopted many strategies to foster AI adoption and the latest one in view is the “ two-fold approach”, with capacity building being one of its primary focuses. NITDA’s strategy aims to ensure that AI literacy spreads across various sectors of Nigerian society, from education and healthcare to finance and agriculture. This approach recognizes that without a workforce skilled in AI technologies, any nation will struggle to harness the potential of AI to drive economic growth and innovation.

Through strategic partnerships with educational institutions, tech hubs, and private sector organizations, NITDA is working to create a robust AI learning ecosystem. that involves upskilling the existing workforce, training young people in AI-related skills, and incorporating AI into formal education curricula.

One of the key programs under this initiative is NITDA’s continuation of collaboration with international organizations and companies to create training platforms and boot camps. Partnerships with companies like Google, Microsoft, JICA, and Bootcamp have facilitated AI training for students, entrepreneurs, and professionals in Nigeria. These programs focus on both the theoretical foundations of AI, such as machine learning algorithms and data science, and practical applications in local industries like agriculture and financial services. By aligning AI literacy with the needs of the local economy, NITDA ensures that the workforce is equipped with the skills required to drive AI adoption in Nigeria’s key sectors.

In addition to international partnerships, the agency also tends to continue to launch domestic initiatives to build AI capacity. These include organizing national hackathons, innovation competitions, and AI-focused conferences aimed at fostering a culture of creativity and problem-solving.

Through these platforms, NITDA engages Nigerian youth and tech enthusiasts, encouraging them to develop AI-based solutions to local challenges. Such efforts contribute to a broader national objective of turning Nigeria into an AI innovation hub within Africa.

The second pillar of the strategy recognizes the rapid pace of AI development and the need to address the concerns about the ethical implications of AI, including issues of bias, discrimination, and most importantly, privacy violations.

The pillar involves developing robust regulatory frameworks that ensure AI development adheres to ethical standards. NITDA’s approach to AI regulation is grounded in the principles of transparency, data privacy, and cybersecurity, aiming to create an environment where AI technologies can thrive without compromising the rights and safety of individuals.

Additionally, in recent years, Nigeria has enacted the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR), which governs the collection, storage, and use of personal data. As AI systems often rely on large datasets, ensuring that data privacy is upheld is crucial for maintaining public trust in AI technologies. NITDA has taken a proactive stance in enforcing the NDPR, with penalties for organizations that fail to comply with its provisions.

Compared to other African nations, Nigeria’s regulatory approach through NITDA, is relatively advanced. While countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt are also working on AI governance, their frameworks tend to focus more on fostering innovation and economic growth, with less emphasis on ethical regulation.

Nigeria, on the other hand, is placing equal weight on both innovation and ethical oversight, recognizing that responsible AI development is crucial for long-term societal trust.

The approach focuses on transparency, data privacy, and cybersecurity creating a more responsible and sustainable environment for AI development.

By incorporating ethical standards early on, Nigeria is attempting to prevent the pitfalls that unchecked AI can bring. This balanced approach positions Nigeria to maintain its leadership role in AI governance within Africa, particularly in terms of setting ethical standards that other countries may follow.

Moreover, Nigeria’s AI strategy is supported by strong government involvement, ensuring that policies align with the country’s broader economic and technological goals. NITDA’s role in coordinating AI-related programs and working with international tech companies gives Nigeria an edge over other African nations that lack centralized leadership in AI development. The agency’s ability to implement training programs, foster innovation hubs, and create partnerships with the private sector further strengthens Nigeria’s position as an emerging AI leader.

This coordinated approach ensures that AI development in Nigeria is both inclusive and strategic, enabling the country to build a sustainable AI ecosystem.

Another strength of Nigeria’s approach lies in its potential to democratize AI education and training due to its scale and ambition. South Africa and Egypt have similar programs focused on AI education and skills development, but Nigeria’s approach is unique in its integration of both grassroots initiatives and top-down policy support. For example, Kenya focuses on private-sector-driven AI training through startups and innovation hubs, while Nigeria’s government plays a more active role through NITDA, ensuring that AI education reaches a wider demographic.

No doubt, this comprehensive approach is intended to democratize access to AI literacy, particularly in underserved communities where digital education is often lacking. Such a widespread approach would allow Nigeria in due time, to produce a large, skilled AI workforce, giving it a competitive advantage in the long run.

Nigeria’s AI strategy has the potential to influence the future direction of AI governance in Africa. Its focus on ethical AI regulation sets it apart from other countries, positioning it as a leader in responsible AI development. In due time, Nigeria would become a model for how African countries can harness AI’s power while protecting their citizens’ rights and interests.

Shuaib S. Agaka, a tech journalist writes from PRNigeria Centre, Kano State.

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As the world shift from certificate to skill acquisition, the Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE has advised the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) the administrator of the student loan initiative programme of the current administration to consider accommodating Nigerians who want to enroll in short courses that will equip them with digital skills.

Mr. Kashifu Inuwa, who made this known in Abuja while receiving a delegation from NELFUND led by the Executive Secretary Mr Akintunde Sawyer said this will empower citizens with high-in-demand global skills that will position Nigeria as a hotspot for brain export.

The purpose of the meeting was to learn, collaborate, and present a demo of the NELFUND Portal to NITDA for input.
He stated that because no one succeeds in isolation, it is important to take into cognisance., the role of the five critical stakeholders of the ecosystem and synergise with them.

He mentioned that these stakeholders include, higher institutions of learning, corporate organisations, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and the government.

He said, “Higher institutions of learning produce the human capital, so they need to be worked with closely because they need to understand the skills in demand; corporate organisations absorb the human capital by employing them or buying products from entrepreneurs, so if there is a gap between the institution and corporate organisation, it will be difficult to place graduates on jobs as most of our graduates cannot fit into the private sector unless undergoing these short courses.”

While acknowledging that NITDA is working with the Federal Ministry of Education to review the curriculum of tertiary institutions to meet, Inuwa said, “For Entrepreneurs, they could be students, dropouts, or anybody who has an idea that meets a need and that students should be trained with the mindset that they are acquiring certificates to create jobs and not just to seek white-collar jobs.”

He stated that venture capitalists should be encouraged to invest, as Nigeria’s technology ecosystem attracts more than 30 percent of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

He said, “70 per cent of that investment comes from the United States while we have Nigerians who have money; that is why we are trying to set up the seed funding for startups that will encourage indigenous venture capitalists.”

The NITDA boss commended the work put into the development of the NELFUND portal as he said the portal should be made mobile friendly as there are many people that will access the portal through their mobile phones.

He further stated, “We can organise a user acceptance test to check vulnerability to ensure that it is okay. I also want to advise that you carryout the Data Protection Compliance Test to ensure you are complying with the Nigeria Data Protection Regulations (NDPR).”

Kashifu assured NELFUND of the Agency’s commitment to giving them all the necessary support as their interest aligns with NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0).

The Executive Secretary of NELFUND Mr Sawyer said, the initiative intends to connect as many Nigerians as possible to the fund in order to obtain tertiary education and pay back after their one year mandatory National Youth Service programme.

He said, “Our mission is to strive to revolutionise higher education accessibility in Nigeria by providing interest-free loans to eligible students. We want to help as many people as possible get to the next level as it will benefit the individual, institutions, and the nation at large.”

The ES said they have come to be challenged by NITDA in other to do better, collaborate, and learn from the Agency.

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In the contemporary global system, digital economy has emerged as a key driver of growth and development. Countries across the world are harnessing the power of technology to spur economic advancement, job creation, and innovation.

Nigeria, a nation with immense potential, has taken significant strides towards realising its digital future through President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which underscores the need to harness technology for socio-economic advancement. At the heart of this transformation is Kashifu Inuwa, the Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

In the last four years, Inuwa has been instrumental in driving NITDA’s mission of promoting the development and regulation of the information technology sector in Nigeria. As a Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) with a deep understanding of technology and its socio-economic impacts, Inuwa has combined his expertise with commitment to innovation and brought his wealth of technical experience to the country’s digital transformation journey.

Under Inuwa’s guidance, NITDA has played a significant role in shaping policies and frameworks that are conducive to the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy. The agency has worked tirelessly to foster a supportive ecosystem for technology startups and entrepreneurs, laying the foundation for innovation to thrive.

Through strategic partnerships with both local and international organisations, NITDA has facilitated knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and investment opportunities, positioning Nigeria as a hub for digital innovation in Africa.

NITDA’s multifaceted approach to advancing Nigeria’s digital economy revolves around its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2021-2024) namely Developmental Regulation; Digital Literacy and Skills; Digital Transformation; Digital Innovation & Entrepreneurship; Cybersecurity; Emerging Technologies and; Promotion of Indigenous Content.

The Agency has been instrumental in driving the expansion of digital infrastructure across Nigeria. Initiatives such as the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), Nigeria e-Government Interoperability Framework (Ne-GIF), Nigeria Government Enterprise Architecture (NGEA), Nigeria Startup Act, among others, to foster an ecosystem that prioritises digital inclusion, innovation, and data-driven governance.

Furthermore, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programmes spearheaded by Inuwa have provided a platform for startups to flourish; offering grants, mentorship, and access to resources to nurture a culture of innovation, resulting in groundbreaking solutions that address local challenges and drive economic growth.

To safeguard Nigeria’s digital assets, NITDA championed data privacy and cybersecurity through regulatory instrument like the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR), which gave birth to the Nigeria Data Protection Commission.

These efforts not only enhance trust in digital services but also attract foreign investments and partnerships.

NITDA is actively empowering the Nigerian workforce with the essential skills demanded by the digital age. Through a range of capacity-building initiatives, NITDA is extending its reach to civil servants, journalists, students, corps members, women, and youth. This strategic effort is aimed at closing the gap in digital skills and enabling individuals to effectively engage in the burgeoning digital economy.

Inuwa unfolded the potentials in Nigerian farmers through Federal Government initiative of National Adopted Village for Smart Agriculture (NAVSA), a project aimed at changing the face of agricultural sector in the country.

NITDA also launched the National Adopted School for Smart Education (NASSE) to promote digital literacy and skills. 500 students and 30 teachers at Junior Secondary School Karshi benefited from the pilot scheme.

The Agency also supervised the training of thousands of Artisans across the 6 Geo-Political Zones on digital literacy and phone repairs.

In addition to making an effort in IT development as well as enhancing the IT capacity of the citizenry, hundreds of IT Hubs, IT Parks, and Community ICT Centres were established, furnished and equipped with world class facilities across the states of the federation. The agency, through its strategic relations with techpreneurs, supported start-ups, IT hubs and ecosystems builders through Nigeria ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship Vision (NIIEV).

Through his strategic vision, NITDA launched the National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF) which set the stage for the review of curriculum from the kindergarten to universities.

NDLF also target to achieve 95 per cent digital literacy by the year 2030 which aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to create over one million jobs for youths in the digital economy sector.

NITDA has attained impressive feats in propelling Nigeria’s digital economy forward through showcasing Nigeria’s capabilities at significant events like the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) held in Dubai and Morocco, as well as the LEAP event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Numerous Nigerian startups have excelled in these events, securing prizes that empower them to become creators of jobs rather than job seekers.

On the other hand, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda will undoubtedly serve as the driving force towards Nigeria’s digital transformation across various sectors, with a keen focus on economic rejuvenation.

Embracing the potential of the digital economy, Tinubu’s agenda aligns seamlessly with NITDA’s mission to harness technology for economic diversification, job creation, and improved public service delivery.

At the heart of President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda lies a comprehensive blueprint for rejuvenating Nigeria’s economy. This holistic vision encapsulates the aspirations of a nation that yearns for sustainable development and quality of life for all citizens. Central to this vision is the recognition that a thriving digital economy is instrumental in achieving these goals.

President Tinubu believes that equitable access to technology is pivotal in bridging societal divides and creating opportunities. To this end, initiatives are being launched to provide digital literacy programmes in schools, training centers, and rural communities.

President Tinubu’s agenda places a premium on nurturing digital entrepreneurship and innovation. Initiatives that provide start-ups with access to technology infrastructure, funding, and mentorship are being integrated into the agenda by creating a fertile ground for innovation. The “Renewed Hope” agenda is laying the foundation for a vibrant ecosystem of digital enterprises that will contribute to economic growth and job creation.

The transformational power of technology is amplified when supported by robust digital infrastructure. President Tinubu’s vision emphasises investments in broadband connectivity, digital networks, and technology hubs across the nation.

This infrastructure not only facilitates seamless digital transactions but also serves as the bedrock for e-governance, data analytics, and smart city initiatives. As a result, Nigeria is primed to capitalize on the Fourth Industrial Revolution and position itself as a regional tech hub.

With President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda and Inuwa’s consolidation at NITDA, Nigeria will indeed prioritise digital innovation, infrastructure, and skills development to have a greater accomplishment, and emerge as a global digital powerhouse, driving socio-economic transformation and ensuring a brighter future for its citizens.

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TECHDIGEST – The Director-General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, reassured stakeholders that the agency’s regulations are not intended to stifle innovation but rather to foster growth and development in the digital space.

Inuwa made this remark during a Panel Discussion at the Business Day CEO Forum 2023 on ‘Charting a Course to Growth and Development’ which took place at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos State.

The DG said that, NITDA’s regulations are designed to promote innovation by creating a level playing field for all players in the digital ecosystem, adding that the agency is committed to working with stakeholders to ensure that the regulations are implemented in a way that does not stifle innovation.

He said, NITDA as a regulator, is aware of the environment, technologies, and innovations by being intelligent in the way it regulates not stifle innovation, but rather to create a market for businesses to grow.

Inuwa acknowledged that while regulation is necessary, it should not impede the progress of innovation and hinder the growth of Startups and technology-driven businesses, as they strive to strike a delicate balance between enabling innovation and safeguarding the interests of consumers, investors, and the general public.

READ ALSO: MSMEs Will Contribute $53b To Nigeria’s Economy If Digitised — NITDA Boss

He noted that NITDA’s framework takes into account both rule-based and non-rule-based regulations, which according to him, the latter approach is favoured by the government, as it allows for collaboration with industry stakeholders to develop the sector and formulate recommendations for compliance.

He opined that there is need for flexibility in regulations, acknowledging that policies may need to be withdrawn and substituted if they are not effective in supporting the ecosystem.

“At NITDA, any intervention is designed to influence business, social and market behaviour, and we have four objectives for any regulatory instrument we are issuing” Firstly, it must create a market or domesticate access to products and services; Secondly, it must protect consumers; thirdly, it must enable innovation; and fourthly how it can improve service delivery.

“The Agency has in place diverse regulations and Policies like the Blockchain Policy, Artificial Intelligence Policy and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR), though NDPR has evolved into a full law and now a Commission was established and is in charge of data regulation, which our regulatory role gave birth to,” he said.
While quoting the Korn Ferry report, the DG said by 2030, there will be a global human talent shortage of more than 85 million people, or roughly equivalent to the population resulting in 8.5 trillion USD unrealised annual revenues.

“As we are moving towards digitisation, talent and knowledge-based economy, a company is as good as its next product and the next product is as good as the people who make it. We need to learn how to attract, retain and harness talent. Talent is the human component and a huge market for the advancement of the country.

The DG added that Nigeria with her young population, can seize the opportunity and position herself to become the global talent factory because she has proven that in sports, music and film industry.

Inuwa said the same can be done in technology and data, particularly cybersecurity, because cybercrime is the biggest venture in the world today according to Cybersecurity Ventures Magazine, which reported that cybercrime will cost the world about 8.1 trillion USD, which is bigger than all crimes combined. “So, as you digitise, cybersecurity is pivotal, you need to look into your cyber hygiene, build confidence and trust for your users” he added.

The DG stated that NITDA is working towards establishing Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) which is aimed at helping to build trust and confidence for all its digital services, bringing about growth and development thus attracting Foreign Direct Investments (FDI).

The event was honoured with the presence of the Chairman of the African Development Bank (ADB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina, Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki, Governor of Jigawa State, Alh. Umar Namadi, CEO of MTN Group, Mr Ralph Mupika, Chairman, Shell Companies Nigeria, Mr Osagie Okunbor and many other dignitaries.

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By Yusuf Yusuf

TECHDIGEST – “People who end up being first don’t actually set out to be first, they set out to do something they love”. Thus, creating a lasting legacy for themselves.

The pioneer National commissioner/Chief Executive officer of the Nigeria Data Protection bureau, is one man who have risen through ranks, expertise both in administrative roles as well as information technology field as a formidable force whose trajectory of achievements keep many on their toes. All these, he has managed to achieve without giving room for the notion of imitation but rather, by setting an exemplary step in advancing policies to ensure the development of the status quo.

A Certified Public Private Partnership Specialist (IP3 Specialist) and a PECB Certified Data Protection Officer, Dr Vincent (FIIM, IAPP, and NCS) is a promising figure the technology world needs to watch out for in coming years.

He joined NITDA in 2002 and has worked in various departments thereby rising to the position of a Director in 2014 and Acting DG in 2016 amongst other roles served in various departments before his recent appointment as National Commissioner.

In just over a year, Dr Vincent Olatunji is creating a new legacy as the pioneer National Commissioner/Chief Executive officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau while setting the pace for the institutionalization of data protection laws in Nigeria.

the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau (NDPB) is an intrinsic segment of the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy born on the 4th of February , 2022 out of the need to uphold the National Digital Economy Policy for digital Nigeria (NDEPS) by further strengthening as well as entrenching the protection of personal identifiable information as well as sensitive personal data.

READ ALSO: NDPB Investigates GT Bank, Zenith Over Data Breach Complaints

Such data includes : emails, names, telephone numbers, house address, religious beliefs, political lineage, medical records, labour union affiliations information being uploaded online in line with standard global practices in a digital economy.

The objective of the bureau as stipulated by the Nigeria data protection regulation 2019 (NDPR) include

1. Safeguard the rights of natural persons to data privacy

2. Foster safe conduct for transactions involving the exchange of personal data

3. Prevent manipulation of personal data and

4. Ensure that Nigerian businesses remain competitive in international trade through the safeguards afforded by a just and equitable legal regulatory framework on data protection

While keying into the global digital revolution is inevitable , it is only pertinent that this rising need is met with accurate preparedness. It is on this note, a major milestone was recorded under the able leadership of his Excellency Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami , with the launch of the National Digital Economy Policy and strategy for a digital Nigeria ( NDEPS).

The NDEPS was launched by President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) in 2019.

This subsequently led to the re-designation of the Ministry of Communications to include digital economy giving it a new phase.

With this development, the journey of the much desired and envisioned digital Nigeria began. This was however, followed by a number of restructuring to accommodate the new set mandate of the Ministry And such restructuring included, the NDPR.

Inarguably, Dr . Vincent has continued laying exemplary standards for any successor to measure up to in time memorial as he has managed to adapt existing resources and manpower to carter for the immediate needs of his bureau to ensure swift and immediate operations against all odds to kick start immediate operations.

Stepping into the herculean task of laying a solid bedrock for data protection policies and strategies. without giving rooms for doubts or sloppiness while distinguishing himself as a formidable force to reckon with, as a pioneer ,may pose a major challenge to many. This is because; the way of the pioneer is always filled with different hurdles stemming from proper administration to implementation of policies. However, Dr Vincent draws strength from his love for his profession. Leaving no stone untouched in his quest for achieving excellence as he emulates the popular saying that

“People who end up being first don’t actually set out to be first, they set out to do something they love”.

The Bureau, within the last one year of its establishment, has recorded significant growth under various parameters including but not limited to the following:-

• Rate of increment of the public sector integration into data privacy and protection framework – 100%,

• Rate of increment in the enrolment of DPOs from data controllers and processors across Nigeria – 600%,

• Rate of increment in the licensing of Data Protection Compliance Organizations (DPCOs) – 50%

Similarly, revenue generation through the implemention of the NDPR has increased by over 60%.

The foregoing milestones are taking place at a time when the Digital Economy under Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami is breaking records in its contribution to Nigeria’s GDP. The ICT sector for instance contributed 18.44% to the total real GDP in Quarter 2 of 2022 – outperforming virtually all other sectors. The establishment of the Bureau, under the visionary leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR has strengthened the bulwark of fundamental rights and freedoms of Nigerian citizens in the data economy ecosystem and has, to all intents and purposes, earned Nigeria a pride of place in the arena of international data governance and human capital development.

With the recently approval of the Nigeria Data Protection Bill by Federal Executive Council (FEC) for further ratification and endorsement by the National Assembly, we wish Dr. Vincent, twice as much of the successes recorded by him just in one year as he sets out to achieve greater developments in the strategic implementation of data protection laws in Nigeria,

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TECHDIGEST – The Federal Government has issued a service-wide circular dated 7th November, 2022 with Ref No. SGF/OP/l/S.3/Xll/186, directing all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government to comply with the provisions of the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR). The Circular which was signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, is to the effect that MDAs should:

1. designate appropriate officers as their Data Protection Officers (DPOs) who will  on regular basis advise management on data processing  activities of their  organization and ensure compliance with the provisions of the NDPR and all  matters relating to protection of the privacy, rights and freedom of data subjects; 
2. forward the name and contact details of the DPOs to Nigeria Data  Protection Bureau (NDPB) for documentation and requisite induction training; 
3. appoint licensed Data Protection Compliance Organizations (DPCOs) who will  guide the MDAs through compliance framework and file their annual reports with the NDPB; 
4. make appropriate budgetary provision for annual Data Protection Audit compliance process and capacity building of Data Protection Officers as well as other staff; and
5.  on annual basis, file the report of their Data Protection Audit to the NDPB not later than the 30th day of March of every year.

The implementation of the Circular is with immediate effect. 

The National Commissioner and CEO, NDPB, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, lauds Federal Government for taking this historic step towards advancing fundamental rights and freedoms of Nigerian citizens and residents particularly in the area of privacy. “As an agency of government, we are cheered by this development because it clearly demonstrates the preparedness of public sector organizations and functionaries in providing an enabling environment for the growth of our digital economy. With this circular, over 200 million Nigerian citizens now have additional reference to call in aid in order to protect lives and livelihoods in a data driven ecosystem.

The Bureau will continue to cooperate with stakeholders so that the numerous benefits of lawful data processing such as job and wealth creation can spread to all nooks and crannies of Nigeria.

MDAs may wish to make enquiries at the headquarters of NDPB at No. 5 Donau Crescent Maitama, Abuja or visit www.ndpb.gov.ng. 

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TECHDIGEST – Nigeria Data Protection Bureau (NDPB) and Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding for the purposes of protecting consumer rights and personal data as well fostering healthy trade competition within the Nigerian economic space.

Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner/CEO, NDPB, in his welcome remarks during the signing ceremony at NDPB Headquarters on Friday, 28th August 2022, expressed his optimism about the objectives of the MOU and the ENFORCEMENTS mechanism for consumer rights and data protection. He noted that the MOU will serve as a model in promoting an ecosystem of cooperation among regulatory authorities. The National Commissioner further commended FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman, Barr. Babatunde Irukera for his altruism and commitment towards consumer rights and competitive trade practices in Nigeria.

In his remarks, the FCCPC Executive Vice-Chairman expressed delight in the momentum that data protection has gained in the country since the establishment of the Bureau by President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. He noted that the institutional possibilities of the MOU in leveraging data governance for sustainable development are compelling.  He pledged the full support of FCCPC to NDPB through the implementation of the MOU. 

Both agencies established a Joint Technical and Enforcement Committee and agree among others “to use their best endeavors in the exercise of their respective powers to enforce and ensure compliance with any mutually agreed decisions, actions, orders, recommendations or understandings arising from any effort, initiative, or investigation that is subject of this  MoU or any mutual cooperation/collaborations by Parties.” The MOU will, ultimately, foster:- prompt resolution of complaints, capacity building, awareness among consumers/data subjects and information sharing between the two agencies.

READ ALSO: FG Stops Importation Of Digital Technology Products

Dr. Olatunji also commended data controllers and data processors that have complied with the recently issued Compliance Notice within a very short time. He noted that this is a clear evidence that many data controllers and processors in Nigeria are becoming more and more transparent and accountable in their dealings with data subjects. This is part of the national effort towards ensuring that no one is left behind in the implementation of National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS).  

With the signing of the MOU, the National Commissioner called on all organizations who collect personal data/records/information on citizens – irrespective of age or gender – to avoid grave legal and reputational consequences by complying with the provisions of the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) 2019. Details of compliance processes are contained in the recent Newsletter VOL.1/ NDPB/CN/ 1/22 posted on the website of the Bureau, www.ndpb.gov.ng.

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TECHDIGEST – The Honorable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami FNCS FBCS FIIM has said that it has become imperative to implement legislations that will ensure the protection and confidentiality of citizens data as part of the government’s responsibility to protect the lives and property of Nigerians.

Prof. Pantami made his assertion when he flagged off the “National Validation on Data Protection Bill” workshop organised by the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau (NDPB) in collaboration with the Nigeria Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) at the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) Conference Centre, Abuja.

In his keynote address, Pantami said that as part of efforts to sustain the country’s digital economy growth, it was crucial to have legislation that would ensure data protection considering the amount of data being generated in the country daily.

READ ALSO: Danbatta hails ITU’s decision to re-elect Nigeria into council

He said, “We know the data generated today is mind-boggling and we must therefore have regulations in place to ensure confidentiality and privacy of data being generated”.

Speaking enthusiastically about the journey so far on the implementation of the data protection bill, the Honorable Minister disclosed that the process began when he was the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the subsidiary legislation, Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) was enacted on 29th January 2019 based on the provision of NITDA Act 2007.

While speaking with an utmost sense of modesty, Pantami revealed that unprecedented achievements have been made with the NDPR in the areas of creating awareness, job creation, and revenue generation for the government amongst many others.

He however noted that despite all the exploits made through the NDPR, it was necessary to have principal legislation to fully institutionalise data protection in the country, an initiative which birthed the establishment of the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau on the 4th of February 2022.

“In order to ensure privacy and confidentiality of our citizen’s data, the administration of His excellency and my principal, President Muhammadu Buhari approved the establishment of NDPB”, he mentioned.

Emphasising on the importance of data in any economy globally, Pantami stated that; big data analytics, datafication, internet of things just to mention a few of the innovations that come with the emergence of the fourth Industrial revolution are all dependent on data.

He hinted that the reason for developing and implementing the NDPR was to ensure that there was no vacuum while in the process of enacting the principal legislation of Nigeria’s data protection law.

“In the past three years in Nigeria, we discovered that the quantity of data being generated increased by 202%, so it is necessary that there are legislations in place to ensure that these data are secured, confidential and private”, he noted.

Speaking on the well-established statutory foundation of data protection in the country, Pantami made references to Section 37 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, Section 6 Article A of the NITDA Act, Sections 26 and 29 of the National Identity Management (NIMC) Act 2007, Section 3 of the Child Rights Act 2013 and Section 13 of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act all who mentioned data protection within the provisions of their laws.

The Honourable Minister then thanked the legislative arm of government, development partners, Federal Ministry of Justice and all stakeholders for their support to the Bureau and the Ministry thus far in the process of actualising the enactment of the principal data protection legislation.

“It is necessary to organise this national discussion where we brought together the legislative arm of government, private sectors among others to review all we have been doing critically and if we agree based on what is recommended to me, it will be transmitted to the Federal Executive Council and thereafter if approved, transmitted to Mr. President and the National Assembly so that we can kick-start the process”, he concluded.

Present at the event for the presentation of the Data Protection Bill for review were the Chairman, Senate Committee on ICT and Cybercrime, Senator Oseni Yakubu; Senator Ibrahim Hadejia; House Committee Chairman on ICT, Hon. Abubakar Lado Suleja; other distinguished members of the National Assembly, NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE who was represented by the Agency’s Director for Information Technology Infrastructure Solutions (ITIS), Dr. Usman Gambo Abdullahi, NIMC DG, Engr. Aliyu Aziz, the Country Director, World Bank Nigeria, Dr. Shubham Chaudhuri, the Country Director, French Development Agency, Mr. Xavier Muron, the hosts of the event; the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer (NC/C.E.O) of NDPB, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the Coordinator, Nigeria ID4D Project, Mr. Solomon Musa Odole and other relevant stakeholders.

The post Legislations Are Crucial For Citizen’s Identity Protection – Pantami appeared first on Tech Digest News.

TECHDIGEST – Following complaints of violation of the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) against Philips Consulting and United Bank for Africa PLC, the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau National Commissioner, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, has ordered a forensic investigation in line with Article 4 of the NDPR.

The complaint against Philips Consulting is in connection with the activities of online lending platforms who willfully breach the privacy of citizens whilst the investigation of UBA PLC pertains to allegations of infringement on the governing principles of data protection.

READ ALSO: Pantami Confirms Irregularities on IPPIS, Vows Review

It will be recalled that the NDPR mandates organizations to carry out due diligence before engaging in any data processing. This is to ensure that parties are accountable for any infringement on fundamental rights and freedoms of data subjects.

The Bureau warns all data controllers and processors to eschew all forms of data processing that are detrimental to citizens as well as the economy and security of the country.

The post NDPB Investigates Phillips Consulting, UBA For Alleged Violation Of NDPR appeared first on Tech Digest News.