Eko Revenue Plus Summit 2024, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), emphasized the critical role of data protection in fostering trust and unlocking new revenue streams for Lagos State. The summit, themed “Unlocking New Revenue Streams for Lagos State,” was held at the Balmoral Convention Center, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos.
Dr. Olatunji, in his goodwill message, highlighted Lagos State’s pivotal role as an economic hub in Nigeria and Africa, noting its large population, thriving housing market, and robust education and healthcare infrastructure. He attributed the state’s economic strides to the foundation laid by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, during his tenure as Lagos State Governor in 1999.
The NDPC CEO commended the Lagos State Government for its efforts in advancing digital identity management and compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act. He revealed that the state currently has 73 trained Data Protection Officers (DPOs) across various sectors but urged for more integration of privacy into revenue-generating technologies.
“Building trust and confidence among residents, investors, and businesses is critical. Data protection is central to achieving this,” Dr. Olatunji said. He assured the audience of NDPC’s commitment to fostering a culture of privacy in Lagos State through collaboration and innovation.
The summit, which focused on strategies to expand Lagos State’s revenue base, drew prominent dignitaries, including:
- The Executive Governor of Lagos State, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin;
- The Special Adviser to the Governor on Taxation, Mr. Abdul-Kabir Opeyemi Ogungbo;
- The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi;
- The Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Ayodele Subir;
- The Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science & Technology, Hon. Olatubosun Alake;
- Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly; and
- Other members of the Executive Council.
Dr. Olatunji also recognized Lagos State’s role as a leader in adopting data protection practices, which aligns with the ongoing digital transformation efforts under the current administration. He noted the strides made under President Tinubu’s leadership, particularly with the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, as key to Lagos State’s compliance.
The summit highlighted the Lagos State Government’s commitment to leveraging innovation, technology, and sustainable practices to increase its revenue while enhancing transparency and public trust.