NDPC Pushes for Harmonised Data Governance Frameworks Across Africa at NADPA Conference in Côte d’Ivoire
The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Vincent Olatunji, has called for stronger collaboration and harmonised data governance frameworks across Africa to support digital trade, secure cross-border data flows and strengthen trust within the continent’s growing digital economy.
Dr Olatunji made the remarks during a fireside chat organised by the United States Department of State, the United States Department of Commerce, and the Future of Privacy Forum at the ongoing Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA-RAPDP) in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
Speaking at the session, Olatunji highlighted Africa’s progress in data protection and privacy regulation, noting that more than 40 African countries have enacted data protection laws, while over 30 nations now operate independent regulatory authorities dedicated to overseeing privacy compliance and governance.
He also observed increasing public awareness around privacy rights, with citizens becoming more informed about how personal data is processed and increasingly holding organisations accountable for misuse or non-compliance.
According to the NDPC chief, unlocking the full economic opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will require interoperable and practical data governance systems capable of supporting secure digital transactions and cross-border information exchange.
He emphasised that fragmented regulatory approaches could hinder Africa’s digital integration goals, stressing the need for coordinated policies that encourage innovation while protecting citizens’ privacy rights.
Olatunji further pointed to Nigeria’s role in advancing continental cooperation through participation in the NADPA-RAPDP Working Group on Harmonisation, describing the initiative as part of broader efforts to align African data protection frameworks.
Also representing the NDPC at the event, Babatunde Bamigboye delivered a presentation on Nigeria’s engagement with the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) Forum. He underscored the importance of international collaboration in data protection, arguing that safeguarding data subjects’ rights beyond national jurisdictions is increasingly essential for building investor confidence and enabling digital economic growth.
The participation of the NDPC at the conference reflects Nigeria’s expanding influence in shaping conversations around privacy regulation, digital governance and cross-border compliance on the African continent.
Observers say harmonised privacy standards and stronger regulatory cooperation will become increasingly important as African countries deepen digital trade, adopt emerging technologies and pursue greater economic integration.