The federal government has revealed plans to digitize all public services, leveraging the benefits of the digital economy while prioritizing the protection of citizens’ data.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, announced this during a press conference on the occasion of Global Data Privacy Day, with the theme: “Take Control of Your Data.”
President Bola Tinubu has reportedly given the ministry a mandate to transform public services through technology, ensuring a comprehensive shift toward digitization.
Dr. Tijani highlighted the interconnected nature of modern gadgets, emphasizing the need for robust data protection as citizens increasingly engage with digital services.
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) is expected to play a pivotal role in safeguarding citizens’ data, while Galaxy Backbone will manage the data exchange system in compliance with regulations.
The minister also emphasized the responsibility of companies producing digital gadgets to ensure the protection of collected data.
Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Stanley Adedeji, pledged that the National Assembly would ensure compliance with data collection practices.
He stressed the importance of organizations being compliant and urged a collaborative effort to build a robust data protection ecosystem.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of NDPC, outlined the commission’s achievements in developing a five-year Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan.
While significant progress has been made, he highlighted the ongoing efforts to build a globally competitive pool of Data Protection Officers (DPOs) to meet obligations under the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA).
The NDPC aims to license an indigenous certification body with global standards to address the need for qualified DPOs and promote local capacity building.
