As part of activities marking the Global Privacy Week, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has organised a capacity-building programme on data protection and privacy for digital media partners, reinforcing its commitment to awareness, compliance, and responsible data handling in Nigeria’s fast-growing digital space.
The training, held for media practitioners across digital and social platforms, was designed to equip participants with a practical and foundational understanding of data protection principles, with the aim of improving the quality and responsibility of data-driven reporting.
The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, was represented at the programme by the Head of Research and Development, Dr. Tolu Pius-Fadipe, who led the technical sessions.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Pius-Fadipe stressed the strategic role of the media in advancing Nigeria’s data protection framework.
“The media is a powerful driver of public awareness and behavioural change. When journalists and digital creators understand data protection principles, they help build trust, protect citizens’ rights, and strengthen Nigeria’s privacy ecosystem,” he said.
He added that informed digital storytelling is critical in an era where personal data is constantly generated, shared, and monetised across online platforms.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Itunu, a senior executive of the NDPC, emphasised that the Commission views the media not merely as observers but as partners in data protection enforcement and advocacy.
“Data protection is no longer a niche legal issue; it is a daily reality for journalists, content creators, and media organisations. How personal data is gathered, stored, and published matters, and the media must lead by example,” he stated.
Mr. Itunu further noted that ethical reporting and respect for privacy rights are essential to sustaining public confidence in digital media.
“When privacy is violated, trust is eroded. Our goal is to ensure that media professionals are well-equipped to report accurately while respecting the rights of data subjects,” he added.
Participants at the programme were trained on key areas including the lawful basis for personal data processing, data subject rights, cross-border data transfers, data security obligations, personal data breach management, and the implementation of appropriate technical and organisational measures to safeguard personal data.
The capacity-building initiative forms part of NDPC’s broader stakeholder engagement strategy aimed at entrenching a strong culture of privacy, accountability, and compliance across all sectors of the Nigerian economy.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to continuous collaboration with the media, noting that informed reporting remains critical to deepening public understanding of data protection and privacy rights in Nigeria.