The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive, secure, and innovation-driven digital ecosystem by participating in the Women in Technology and Engineering Summit and Awards 2026, held in Lagos. The Summit, organised by Womennovate, was convened under the theme, “Engineering Africa’s Future: Innovation, Infrastructure, and Inclusive Technology.”
The event brought together an impressive cross-section of stakeholders from government, the private sector, academia, development organisations, and the broader technology ecosystem to deliberate on practical strategies for accelerating innovation, strengthening digital infrastructure, and advancing inclusive technology across Africa.
Representing the Commission at the Summit were Ms Na’ankwat Dariem, Ms Omoikhefe Ahimie, and Ms Busayomi Oludotun, who joined industry leaders and policymakers in conversations focused on shaping a resilient and sustainable digital future.
A major highlight of the Summit was the panel session titled “Policies versus Reality: What Will It Take to Truly Build a Thriving Tech Ecosystem?”, where Ms Busayomi Oludotun served as one of the distinguished panellists. During the engaging discussion, she underscored the pivotal role of the NDPC as Nigeria’s data protection regulator, established to ensure compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (NDP Act).
She further emphasised that a thriving digital economy depends not only on technological innovation but also on public trust, responsible data governance, and robust privacy safeguards. According to her, effective implementation of data protection principles creates an enabling environment where businesses can innovate with confidence while individuals enjoy the assurance that their personal data is processed lawfully, fairly, and securely.
The Summit concluded with an awards ceremony celebrating exceptional contributions to technology, engineering, innovation, and inclusion. In recognition of his outstanding commitment to promoting diversity and supporting the advancement of women in the technology ecosystem, the National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, , was honoured with the Male Ally for Women in Technology Award.
The prestigious award was received on his behalf by Ms Na’ankwat Dariem, who expressed appreciation to the organisers for recognising the Commission’s unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive digital landscape where innovation and equal opportunity can flourish.
The recognition further reinforces the NDPC’s dedication to championing data privacy, promoting responsible data governance, strengthening digital literacy, and supporting initiatives that encourage greater participation of women and other underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering, and innovation.
As Nigeria continues its digital transformation journey, the NDPC remains committed to collaborating with stakeholders across sectors to build a trusted digital ecosystem that safeguards personal data, inspires innovation, and ensures that the benefits of technology are accessible to all.
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