As Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, the Data Knowledge Information and Privacy Protection Initiative (DKIPPI) says the nation’s data protection framework is driving economic growth, job creation, and international recognition.
Speaking in Lagos on Wednesday, DKIPPI President, Mr. Tokunbo Smith, said the signing of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) had generated billions in revenue and created thousands of jobs.
“The NDPC has licensed 274 Data Protection Compliance Organisations (DPCOs), each employing three to ten people, making a huge impact on youth employment,” Smith said.
He noted that the Act requires every organisation to appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO), opening up new professional opportunities, while the NDPC’s certification programme has made data protection skills more accessible to young Nigerians.
Smith added that Nigeria’s commitment to data protection has attracted international attention, with six African countries visiting the NDPC to learn from its framework.
“The push for data protection is also enhancing national security and reputation. Increased awareness and compliance will further reduce identity theft and fraudulent activities, improving Nigeria’s global image,” he said.
However, Smith identified inadequate funding and corporate reluctance to comply as key challenges. He called for stronger awareness campaigns, compulsory compliance, and adoption of data protection as a national culture to sustain the gains.
