Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, was the keynote speaker at the recent CIL Dialogues: Panel Discussion on the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA 2023). The event, titled “One Year of the Data Protection Act and Five Years of Regulating Data Processing in Nigeria: Prospects and Challenges,” was organized by the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
During his visit, Dr. Olatunji met with the Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (DVC), Prof. Ayodele Atsenuwa. Prof. Atsenuwa expressed gratitude to Dr. Olatunji and highlighted UNILAG’s commitment to recognizing data protection as a vital and emerging field. She noted that the university aims to collaborate closely with the Commission to develop courses and build a cadre of experts and professionals in data protection. Additionally, she assured that UNILAG would take all necessary steps to comply with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, ensuring the adequate safeguarding of students’ personal data.
Dr. Olatunji emphasized the importance of acquiring data protection skills to tap into the growing opportunities within the ecosystem. He pointed out the current shortage of certified experts in the field and discussed the ongoing efforts to domesticate data protection certification in Nigeria. He urged the university to work with the Commission in exchanging ideas, developing policies, and exploring further areas of partnership.
In his presentation, Dr. Olatunji outlined the foundation and progress of data protection in Nigeria, underscoring the significance of data protection laws and the model adopted to ensure compliance. He highlighted the job prospects within the ecosystem, particularly for the students present at the event.
The panel discussion saw attendance from students, lecturers, heads of departments, and deans of UNILAG. Topics covered during the interactive session included the establishment of a data protection club at UNILAG, balancing freedom of information and data privacy, privacy issues in AI and startups, and data subject rights, among others.
This event marks a significant step in fostering a deeper understanding and commitment to data protection within the academic community, paving the way for future collaborations and advancements in the field.
ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU
 and Hon. Adedeji Stanley Olajide Empower Over 1,000 Youths with Data Protection and Digital Literacy Training in Ibadan){kind=link}