Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NDPC) has commenced a capacity-building programme for Data Protection Officers (DPOs) across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), with a focus on strengthening data protection compliance and preventing breaches.
The National Commissioner/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, declared the programme open in Abuja, urging DPOs to strengthen the systems and processes through which their organisations protect personal data.
Olatunji stressed that effective data protection compliance must be driven by organisations themselves through strong institutional systems, processes and human capital.
He noted that strategic government institutions process significant volumes of personal data, making it essential for DPOs to possess the knowledge and professional skills required to prevent, identify and mitigate data breaches.
The NDPC chief executive also reminded participants that non-compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act), 2023 carries consequences, urging DPOs to have a clear understanding of their statutory responsibilities.
He called on the officers to embed data protection principles across their respective institutions and continually improve their professional capacity.
Olatunji further encouraged the DPOs to share knowledge with colleagues, promote a strong culture of data protection within their organisations and serve as effective ambassadors for responsible data practices.
The programme is aimed at enhancing the capacity of DPOs to support compliance with Nigeria’s data protection framework and strengthen responsible handling of personal information across government institutions.
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