The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has called for regulatory frameworks that protect data privacy while creating an enabling environment for digital infrastructure investment, innovation and connectivity across Africa.
The National Commissioner/Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, was represented by the Commission’s Head of Compliance Services Management, Mrs Caroline Okafor, Esq., at International Telecoms Week (ITW) and Datacloud Africa 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya.
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Mrs Okafor participated in two high-level panel sessions focusing on regulation, digital infrastructure and connectivity investment, with discussions centred on the intersection of data protection, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure and investment in Africa’s growing digital economy.
At the Regulatory Roundtable titled, “Regulation That Builds: Aligning Policy and Digital Infrastructure Investment Priorities,” Mrs Okafor stressed the need for governments to establish an enabling environment for cross-border digital infrastructure and investment.
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She said effective regulation should build trust rather than create unnecessary barriers to investment, highlighting the importance of a risk-based approach to data protection, Privacy by Design and clear, transparent and predictable regulatory requirements.
According to her, regulatory certainty is essential for investors and infrastructure providers making long-term commitments to Africa’s digital economy.
During the second panel session, Mrs Okafor highlighted the importance of sector-specific guidelines, continuous sensitisation and public awareness in strengthening compliance and building trust across the digital ecosystem.
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She noted that regulation should not “shut the door” on investment but should provide clear pathways for businesses to innovate and invest responsibly while protecting the rights and privacy of data subjects.
The NDPC’s participation at ITW Africa 2026 underscored the Commission’s focus on trusted digital transformation, responsible investment and regulatory approaches that protect data subjects while supporting innovation, connectivity and sustainable digital growth across Africa.