As part of its ongoing mission to advance data privacy and protection in Nigeria, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to train 5,000 Nigerian youths in data privacy and protection. This landmark collaboration aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8 Presidential Priorities and the Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on empowering young Nigerians with the skills needed for the emerging data protection ecosystem.
Speaking at the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of NDPC, emphasized the critical importance of data protection in building investor confidence and strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy. “Data is one of the most valuable assets in the modern economy, and as Nigeria repositions itself to attract foreign direct investment, it is essential that we demonstrate accountability in how we manage data. With over 500,000 data controllers in Nigeria, each requiring at least one certified data protection officer, this partnership presents a tremendous opportunity for young Nigerians to fill these roles,” Dr. Olatunji stated.
He further highlighted that the NDPC is committed to ensuring that the certification process for these youths is both accessible and globally recognized. “To ease the burden on our foreign exchange and ensure high standards, we have licensed an in-country certification body that will issue globally recognized certificates to the trainees, equipping them to compete on a global scale,” he added.
The Hon. Minister of State for Youth Development, Engr. Ayodele Olawande, expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential to drive youth empowerment, job creation, and wealth generation. “Eighty percent of human capital development under this administration is focused on youths, and this initiative is designed to provide 5,000 young Nigerians with the technical skills to access jobs in the fast-growing data protection sector,” the Minister said.
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, lauded the NDPC for spearheading this initiative and affirmed the Ministry’s readiness to support the successful execution of the partnership.
With the rising importance of data protection worldwide, this initiative not only provides Nigerian youths with critical skills but also strengthens Nigeria’s position as a leader in data privacy and security in Africa. Through this partnership, the NDPC is helping create a robust workforce ready to meet the demands of a data-driven global economy.