Anthony Emeka Nwosu
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) hosted a delegation from the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) in Abuja, led by its National President, Professor Muhammad Sirajo Aliyu (FNCS), for a courtesy visit aimed at strengthening collaboration between the two organizations.
During the visit, Prof. Aliyu commended Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of NDPC, for his long-standing commitment to the NCS and highlighted the Society’s intent to seek the Commission’s support for its flagship programs. He also invited Dr. Olatunji to upcoming NCS events and reaffirmed the Society’s dedication to supporting the Commission in advancing data protection and privacy in Nigeria.
Dr. Olatunji praised the NCS for its capacity-building and advocacy programs that develop IT professionals and emphasized the critical role of private sector associations in driving policies that shape the nation’s technology landscape. He noted:
“While the government makes policies, it is often the private sector that drives them. Awareness is a key part of the Commission’s mandate, and we are committed to strengthening our partnership with the NCS to promote data protection and privacy across Nigeria.”
The NDPC CEO also encouraged the NCS to consider broadening its membership to include professionals outside traditional Computer Science or IT disciplines who are actively engaged in the technology ecosystem, stating that this would enhance collaboration across both private and public sectors.
Dr. Olatunji assured the NCS of the Commission’s participation in its programs and reaffirmed the NDPC’s commitment to fostering a culture of digital safety, privacy, and professional development among Nigerian IT practitioners. Analysts say such partnerships are vital for strengthening Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, improving compliance with data protection regulations, and increasing public awareness of privacy rights.
The visit underscores a growing recognition that collaboration between regulatory bodies and professional associations is key to building a robust, secure, and inclusive digital economy in Nigeria.