In a major step toward advancing data privacy awareness in Nigeria, De-Potter College of Health Technology, Ijebu Igbo, has inaugurated the nation’s first Data Privacy Club (DPC).
The initiative was announced by Mr. Tokunbo Smith, President of the Data Knowledge Information and Privacy Protection Initiative (DKIPPI), a non-profit organisation, during a briefing in Lagos on Saturday.
Smith said the project was a collaboration between DKIPPI and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), positioning the college as a pioneering institution in fostering a culture of information protection across educational institutions.
“The purpose of a Data Privacy Club in higher institutions is to raise awareness about data protection and educate students, faculty, and staff on the importance of data privacy,” Smith explained. “It also encourages responsible handling of personal and sensitive data, develops members’ skills, and promotes adherence to data protection regulations in research, academia, and daily life.”
He added that the club would ensure research projects and innovations are designed with data protection in mind, while cultivating a culture of responsibility among students and staff.
Highlighting the national significance of the initiative, Smith commended NDPC for supporting the project and donated 40 copies of his book on Data Privacy and Protection to the college library to further enhance literacy on the subject.
Dr. Raphael Akangbe, Director of Advocacy at DKIPPI, emphasised the critical importance of data responsibility for both students and staff, while Mr. Wole Jacobs, Director of Research and Development, explained the technical aspects of privacy management.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Toki Philips, representing the Provost of De-Potter College, praised DKIPPI’s commitment to data protection awareness and pledged full institutional support for the club’s activities. He also expressed optimism for future collaborations.
