NDPC Hosts Third IMPACT Initiative on Compliance Audit Returns

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has successfully hosted the third edition of its IMPACT (Important Privacy Action Trends) initiative, with a focus on enhancing regulatory compliance and risk management in data protection practices.

The virtual event, themed “Understanding Compliance Audit Returns (CAR) as a Tool for Demonstrating Accountability and Managing Risks,” brought together key stakeholders and industry experts to explore the strategic importance of Compliance Audit Returns in strengthening accountability frameworks.

In her opening remarks, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice, Mrs. Folashade Alli, represented by Tony Krukrubo, SAN, underscored the critical role of legal and regulatory alignment in advancing data protection compliance across sectors.

The session featured insightful presentations from notable experts, including Ms. Ibukunoluwa Owa, Head of the Regulations Unit at NDPC; Dr. Samuel Ibrahim, Associate Director at Anderson; Mr. Confidence Amuda, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Privalex Advisory; Mr. Agwu David Nwaeze, Data Protection Officer at the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC); and Ms. Toulu Akerele, Global Data Protection Officer at Paystack.

Discussions centered on the standardized template for filing Compliance Audit Returns, as outlined in Schedule 2 of the NDP Act – General Application and Implementation Directive (GAID), as well as the role of CARs in demonstrating organizational accountability and mitigating risks. Speakers also emphasized the importance of collaboration between organizations and Data Protection Compliance Organisations (DPCOs) to ensure seamless filing processes.

Additionally, participants were exposed to practical methodologies for conducting internal audits and enhancing data processing practices in line with regulatory requirements.

The session was moderated by the Technical Assistant to the National Commissioner, Ms. Atinuke Nukay, and attracted a total of 462 participants. The webinar featured robust engagement and interactive discussions, earning positive feedback from attendees.