ABUJA – Nigeria is hosting the first Annual General Meeting and Conference of the Network of Africa Data Protection Authority (NADPA-RAPDP) in Abuja from May 6-8. Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC), stated the event supports Nigeria’s goal to build a $1 billion data privacy ecosystem.
Conference Supports Data Privacy Goals
The conference theme is “Balancing Innovation in Africa, Data Protection and Privacy in Emerging Technologies.” Over 2,000 participants from more than 30 countries are expected. Dr. Olatunji indicated that hosting this event reflects Nigeria’s progress in data protection. The gathering aims to foster collaboration and discussion, aiding the development of the Nigeria data privacy ecosystem.
Data Law Improves Global Standing
Nigeria’s improved standing in data protection follows the Data Protection and Privacy Act signed by President Bola Tinubu in 2023. “This event is a self-evident testimony to the trust and confidence Nigeria is increasingly gaining,” Dr. Olatunji remarked regarding the nation’s data protection initiatives. The NADPA conference serves as a platform for African nations to discuss regulations and share practices.
Data Protection and Economic Opportunity
The US Embassy’s Acting Deputy Chief of Mission, Christine Harbaugh, commented on Nigeria’s leadership in data protection. She noted Nigeria’s joining the Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) Forum. “Nigeria is sending a clear message to the world: it is open for digital business,” Harbaugh said. She added that such measures can create commercial opportunities, including between US and Nigerian firms, supporting the growth of the Nigeria data privacy ecosystem.
By Abdullah Korede
