The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) have joined forces to bolster data protection and privacy within the country’s telecommunications sector.
The two agencies inaugurated the Data Protection in Telecommunications Working Group (DPTWG) in Abuja, marking a significant step towards safeguarding the rights of Nigeria’s over 165 million mobile phone users.
The DPTWG’s formation underscores the growing importance of data privacy in the digital age. With Nigeria’s digital economy expanding rapidly, the need to protect citizens’ personal information has become paramount.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the crucial role of protecting data subjects’ rights in the evolving digital landscape. He stated that the combined expertise of the NDPC and NCC will be a powerful catalyst for growth in Nigeria’s digital economy and contribute significantly to national development.
The DPTWG has been tasked with several key responsibilities: identifying innovative solutions for data protection and privacy within the telecommunications sector; facilitating capacity building for stakeholders and entities in the industry; and ensuring the actual implementation of data protection and privacy practices.
Engr. Abraham Oshadami, Executive Commissioner (Technical Services) at the NCC, reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to enforcing compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023) within the telecoms industry. He assured the NDPC of the NCC’s full support for the DPTWG in achieving its mandate.
This collaborative effort between the NDPC and NCC is expected to play a vital role in protecting the rights of Nigerian citizens as the nation continues its digital transformation. The DPTWG’s work will be instrumental in enhancing data protection and privacy standards in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, fostering trust and security for consumers.