The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has achieved a significant milestone under its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan through ongoing bilateral engagements with key French institutions in Paris, France. The engagement is being facilitated by the Economic Department of the French Embassy.
During the initial session, the Nigerian delegation, led by Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of the NDPC, met with officials from the Interministerial Directorate for Digital Affairs (DINUM) and the French data protection authority, Commission Nationale Informatique et Libertés (CNIL), represented by Vice-Chair Anne Debet.
The discussions built on the regulatory lessons Nigeria drew from France and the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) during the drafting of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023. The session provided the Nigerian delegation with valuable insights into multiple facets of data governance and the digital economy, including investigation tools and methodologies, innovation and artificial intelligence, digital governance, and public awareness strategies.
Dr. Olatunji shared Nigeria’s experiences in developing a robust data protection framework, enforcement mechanisms, and a Public-Private Partnership model, while emphasizing collaboration and cross-border cooperation. Both parties explored key issues such as cross-border protection of citizens, mutual legal assistance, and information sharing.
These engagements are part of NDPC’s broader efforts to strengthen Nigerian-French relations in data governance and promote sustainable growth in the digital economy. The collaboration underscores the importance of international partnerships in enhancing regulatory practices and protecting citizens in an increasingly interconnected digital landscape.
