The Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN) has hailed the creation of the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau (NDPB) by President Muhammadu Buhari, noting that the gesture is a total commitment on the part of the federal government to data protection of its citizens.
The President of CSEAN, Mr. Remi Afon who commended the government in a statement he personally signed, also congratulate Dr Vincent Olatunji, a hitherto Director of eGovernment Development and Regulations Department at NITDA as the Pioneer National Commissioner of the Bureau, noting that the association hopes Dr Vincent brings his wealth of experience acquired over the years to bear in his new appointment.
“The establishment of the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau is a step in the right direction. Even though is long overdue. CSEAN commends the President for approving the establishment as recommended by the Minister of Communication. This shows commitment on the part of Government to data protection of it’s citizens,” the statement reads.
The statement further urged the federal government as the next step to establish the national cybersecurity coordination centre as articulated in the recently reviewed National Cybersecurity Security Policy & Strategy by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
This, CSEAN believes will further strengthen the security of the country’s cyber space and citizens’ data.
President Muhammadu Buhari had last week approved the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau (NDPB) and appointed Dr. Vincent Olatunji as the Pioneer National Commissioner. The establishment followed a request made by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof Isa Pantami.
The NDPB has been established in line with global best practice and will focus on data protection and privacy for the country, among others.