The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) have explored areas of collaboration to strengthen data protection and privacy compliance in the management of information relating to Nigerians in the diaspora.
The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, led a delegation from the Commission on a courtesy visit to the Chairman and CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
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During the visit, Olatunji commended Dabiri-Erewa for her efforts in advancing the interests and welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora.
He provided an overview of the development of data protection and privacy in Nigeria and globally, noting the increasing importance of technology and data protection in strengthening the competitiveness of Nigerian businesses.
According to him, the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act) 2023 reflected the importance attached to protecting personal data and building confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy.
Olatunji emphasised the need for NiDCOM to prioritise compliance with the NDP Act, noting that effective data protection would strengthen public and stakeholder confidence in the Commission and support its engagements with partners within and outside Nigeria.
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He reaffirmed the NDPC’s readiness to support NiDCOM’s compliance efforts, including through free data protection training for its staff and the provision of Virtual Privacy Academy (VPA) vouchers.
Responding, Dabiri-Erewa congratulated Olatunji on the inauguration of the NDPC’s new office and commended the Commission for its efforts towards building trust and creating value in government.
She disclosed that NiDCOM had received the circular issued by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) on compliance with the NDP Act and had commenced steps towards meeting the requirements.
The NiDCOM Chairman expressed appreciation for the training and VPA support offered by the NDPC, while reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to strengthening collaboration on data protection and privacy.
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The meeting also discussed other areas of cooperation, including the proposed establishment of a joint working team to facilitate sustained engagement and coordination between the two government agencies.
The collaboration is expected to support stronger data protection practices and promote greater awareness of privacy obligations within NiDCOM’s operations.