Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), delivered a keynote address at the National Day of Identity 2024, held under the theme “Digital Public Infrastructure: Enabling Access to Services.” In his address, Dr. Olatunji lauded the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for its role in celebrating Identity Day, a key initiative aligned with Agenda 16.9 of the UN’s Global Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr. Olatunji emphasized the importance of the ongoing partnership between NDPC and NIMC in safeguarding the rights and interests of Nigerians. He noted the crucial role of Nigeria’s digital identity system in building trust and confidence within the country’s digital economy. Highlighting recent advancements, he pointed to improvements in identity management, including the collection, processing, and protection of personal and investor data.
Dr. Olatunji credited these strides to the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a significant milestone for Nigeria’s digital economy and data protection framework. He also revealed that the NDPC will host the NADPA Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) in 2025, which will bring together global data protection experts to Nigeria.
Additionally, Dr. Olatunji participated in a panel session titled “Trust Frameworks for Data Exchange: Authentication/Verification,” where he discussed key issues related to data trust and security.
The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Senator (Dr) George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Honourable Minister of Interior; Hon. Olujimi Odimayo, House Committee Chairman on National Population; and Carl Cruz, Managing Director/CEO of Airtel Nigeria, among others.