The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Dr Vincent Olatunji, has raised fresh concerns over the growing risks tied to Nigeria’s fast-evolving digital space, warning that weak data governance is no longer just a corporate issue but a broader societal challenge.
Speaking at the 2026 Members’ Evening of the Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria in Lagos, Dr Olatunji delivered a keynote address themed “Beyond Oversight: Directors as Stewards of Technology, Data, and Trust in the Imagination Era.” His message placed strong emphasis on the human and economic consequences of data misuse, privacy breaches, and declining digital trust.
He noted that as Nigeria embraces what he described as the “Imagination Era,” driven by rapid technological advancement and digital innovation, new vulnerabilities are emerging that directly impact citizens, businesses, and national development. According to him, issues such as data exploitation, cyber threats, and weak compliance frameworks are eroding public confidence and exposing individuals to risks that go beyond financial loss, affecting identity, security, and dignity.
Dr Olatunji stressed that digital trust is quickly becoming a form of social capital, one that determines not only business success but also public confidence in institutions. He warned that organisations that fail to protect user data risk damaging not just their reputation, but also the broader digital ecosystem Nigeria is working to build.
Highlighting the importance of regulation, he called on corporate leaders to prioritise compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, describing it as a critical tool for protecting citizens and strengthening the economy. He explained that beyond avoiding penalties, compliance creates a culture of accountability, transparency, and respect for consumer rights.
The NDPC boss further challenged directors to rethink their roles, urging them to move from passive oversight to active stewardship. He emphasised that leadership must now include responsibility for how data is collected, managed, and protected, especially in a climate where digital systems increasingly shape everyday life.
During a fireside chat moderated by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities, Uche Uzoebo, Dr Olatunji expanded on the need for stronger internal systems, continuous staff training, and widespread awareness. He pointed out that capacity building within organisations is essential to closing knowledge gaps and preventing costly data breaches.
He also engaged with members of the Institute, addressing concerns around enforcement, compliance challenges, and the future of data governance in Nigeria. In his closing remarks, he urged organisations to embed data protection into their culture, noting that sustainable change can only happen when privacy and security become shared values rather than regulatory obligations.
In recognition of his contributions to advancing data protection and privacy rights, Dr Olatunji was presented with an honorary award by the Institute. The event also featured the unveiling of the 37th edition of the Directors’ Magazine, attended by the President and Chairman of the Governing Board of CIoD, Adetunji Oyebanji, alongside other distinguished members.
As Nigeria continues its digital transformation journey, stakeholders say the conversation is shifting from technology adoption to responsible usage, with growing consensus that protecting data is not just a technical requirement, but a social responsibility that affects every Nigerian.