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NDPC Highlights Critical Role of Data Security in Economic Growth at Elevate Summit 2025

NDPC Highlights Critical Role of Data Security in Economic Growth at Elevate Summit 2025

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) reiterated the vital importance of data security in modern business operations during its keynote address at the Elevate Summit 2025 in Lagos. The National Commissioner and CEO of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, represented by Barrister Babatunde Bamgboye, Head of Legal, Enforcement, and Regulation, emphasized that robust data protection measures are essential for project management and national economic development.

With businesses increasingly relying on data for decision-making, performance tracking, and resource management, Dr. Olatunji underscored the need for organizations to prioritize privacy and compliance. He outlined key considerations in data protection, including risk assessment, legal frameworks for processing data, and upholding the rights of individuals.

“In today’s interconnected business landscape, failing to safeguard data erodes trust and credibility,” he stated. “Organizations must embed data privacy principles into their operations to maintain stakeholder confidence.”

The NDPC also highlighted the vast economic potential of Nigeria’s data protection sector, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s eight-point agenda for national development. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a secure digital ecosystem that drives innovation and growth.

#ChampioningPrivacyRights #ElevateSummit2025 #DataProtection #NDPC

Zenith Bank Leads Gender Equality in Nigeria’s Banking Sector Under Female CEO

Zenith Bank Leads Gender Equality in Nigeria’s Banking Sector Under Female CEO

 

Nigeria’s most profitable bank, Zenith Bank, has achieved a historic milestone in gender representation, with women now making up the majority of its workforce. According to the bank’s 2024 financial report released this week, 53% of its employees are female, while men account for 47%.

The figures mark a significant shift from 2023, when male staff outnumbered women. The change followed the appointment of Adaora Umeoji as CEO, underscoring the bank’s commitment to gender inclusivity in leadership and employment.

With a total workforce of 7,704, Zenith Bank employs 4,090 women and 3,614 men, making it the only Tier-1 Nigerian bank with a female-majority staff. The institution, which reported over ₦1 trillion in profit last year, is now predominantly run by women—a development hailed as a testament to societal progress.

Industry analysts say the achievement reflects broader efforts to close gender gaps in Nigeria’s corporate sector. “This speaks volumes,” said financial expert Tunde Olawale. “Having the country’s most profitable bank led and largely staffed by women shows what’s possible when women are given equal opportunities.”

Umeoji’s leadership has drawn attention to the importance of educating and empowering girls, with advocates citing Zenith Bank’s success as proof of the transformative impact of gender-balanced representation.

As Nigeria’s financial sector continues to evolve, Zenith Bank’s milestone sets a new benchmark for inclusivity in corporate Nigeria.

Sports Chief Praises Tinubu’s Leadership on 73rd Birthday, Hails Sports Sector Reforms

Sports Chief Praises Tinubu’s Leadership on 73rd Birthday, Hails Sports Sector Reforms

 

National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko has described President Bola Tinubu as “a national blessing” as Nigeria’s leader marks his 73rd birthday, particularly applauding his transformative impact on sports development.

In a special birthday tribute, Dikko highlighted how Tinubu’s bold governance decisions are yielding results across sectors despite initial challenges. “President Tinubu’s experience has been crucial in navigating complex national issues through his Renewed Hope agenda,” the sports administrator stated.

Sports Sector Revolution
Dikko specifically praised the President’s restructuring of sports administration, including:

  • Restoring the NSC’s full statutory powers
  • Replacing the ministry structure with a more efficient commission model
  • Approving unprecedented sports infrastructure funding
  • Creating private-sector investment incentives

“The President mandated us to shift from mere international participation to domestic sports development that adds economic value,” Dikko revealed. “This paradigm shift from consumption to production is already showing results.”

Economic Reforms & Leadership
The NSC chairman acknowledged the initial difficulty of some economic policies but noted they’re now bearing fruit. “It takes rare courage to make such tough decisions. History will remember President Tinubu’s boldness in resetting Nigeria’s trajectory.”

Birthday Wishes
Dikko concluded with heartfelt wishes on behalf of Nigeria’s sports community:

  • Prayer for long life and good health
  • Continued courage in national leadership
  • Strength to pilot Nigeria to greater heights
  • Commitment to delivering Tinubu’s sports development vision

“The sports sector stands firmly behind Mr. President. We’re leveraging his unprecedented support to take Nigerian sports to new levels,” Dikko affirmed.

The tribute comes as Nigeria prepares to host several international sporting events following recent infrastructure upgrades approved by the Tinubu administration.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Tinubu’s sports reforms praised as game-changing
  2. NSC restoration hailed as masterstroke for development
  3. Domestic sports economy focus creating new opportunities
  4. Sports community pledges continued support for administration’s vision

FG Commends JICA for ₦72 Billion Agricultural Support Loan

FG Commends JICA for ₦72 Billion Agricultural Support Loan

The Federal Government has lauded the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for its ₦72 billion (12 billion Japanese Yen) emergency loan to boost Nigeria’s agricultural sector under the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP).

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, disclosed this during a meeting with a JICA delegation led by Director-General Takao Shimokawa in Abuja. He stated that the funds would be deployed to:

  • Enhance rice seed quality,
  • Improve farm input delivery,
  • Strengthen extension services, and
  • Boost private sector involvement in agricultural input production.

Focus on Rice Production & Climate Resilience

The minister highlighted that the rice seed production initiative, anchored at the National Cereal Research Institute (NCRI) in Badeggi, Niger State, aims to develop high-yield, disease-resistant rice varieties capable of withstanding climate challenges.

“We are collaborating with the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC) to improve the seed ecosystem,” Kyari said. He also noted that technology-driven extension services, including mobile apps for real-time weather and market updates, will empower farmers.

JICA’s Long-Standing Partnership

The minister recalled JICA’s Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion (SHEP) project (2020–2024), which benefited farmers in 14 states, including Nasarawa, Benue, Osun, and Kebbi. He described the initiative as a bridge between research and practical farming.

Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Abdullahi Sabi Aliyu, reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s stance: “Plant the right seed, and you can feed the nation.” He stressed that quality seeds remain pivotal to solving Nigeria’s food security challenges.

JICA Reaffirms Commitment

JICA’s Director-General, Takao Shimokawa, confirmed the first loan disbursement and assured continued support for Nigeria’s food security goals. He announced an upcoming grant for rice production machinery, with procurement set to begin soon.

“JICA remains fully committed to Nigeria’s agricultural growth,” Shimokawa stated, emphasizing Nigeria’s role as Africa’s largest rice producer.

Conclusion

The partnership between Nigeria and JICA seeks to foster a sustainable, resilient agricultural system, ensuring long-term food security and economic stability.

Ebehijie Momoh, CEO of AfriGOPay to Deliver Keynote at PAFON 2.0

Ebehijie Momoh, CEO of AfriGOPay to Deliver Keynote at PAFON 2.0

…Uche Uzoebo, MD/CEO SANEF is the Special Guest

Ebehijie Momoh (Mrs), the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of AfriGOPay Financial Services Limited (AFSL), a subsidiary of NIBSS, has been announced as the keynote speaker for the second edition of Payments Forum Nigeria (PAFON 2.0).

PAFON 2.0 will be held on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at the Function Room 1, Oriental Hotel, Lekki Road, Lagos by 9am (WAT).

Register here to attend: https://shorturl.at/IPOjA

The keynote speaker alongside the special guest, Uche Uzoebo, the MD/CEO of SANEF, and others lined-up for the Forum, will focus on the theme: “Bridging the Customer Experience Gap for Financial Inclusion Using AI”, which underscores the urgent need to safeguard digital transactions against emerging threats while ensuring seamless financial inclusion and innovation.

Mrs Momoh is leading AfriGO vision to deliver a seamless, secure and efficient payment card scheme which facilitates faster transactions, reduces card operating costs to enhance the overall user experience for stakeholders, partners, and cardholders.

With over 30 years of progressive leadership experience in the Nigerian financial and payment industry, she has a distinguished career marked by strategic vision and a commitment to delivering exceptional results.

She has consistently demonstrated her ability to drive large-scale operations, enhance profit and loss growth, and lead high-performance teams.

Also, Mrs. Uche Uzoebo is a passionate and renowned expert in financial inclusion, digital transformation, inclusive finance and women empowerment in Nigeria.

Under her leadership, SANEF Limited is committed to achieving excellence, greater growth, development and expansion to stakeholders in the ecosystem.

Speaking ahead of PAFON 2.0, Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, the co-convener, stated:

“As Nigeria accelerates its transition to a digital economy, ensuring trust and security in payments has never been more critical. PAFON 2.0 will serve as a pivotal platform to address these challenges and unlock opportunities for a more resilient and inclusive financial system.”

PAFON 2.0 is open to payment service providers, fintech firms, banks, regulatory bodies, cybersecurity experts, and all stakeholders invested in the future of digital transactions in Nigeria.

NNPC Foundation Launches Nationwide Initiatives to Restore Vision, Boost STEM Education, and Train Farmers

NNPC Foundation Launches Nationwide Initiatives to Restore Vision, Boost STEM Education, and Train Farmers

The NNPC Foundation Ltd/Gte, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of NNPC Ltd., has unveiled three groundbreaking programs aimed at enhancing healthcare, education, and agriculture across Nigeria. These initiatives, which include free cataract surgeries, STEM education support, and agricultural training, reaffirm NNPC Ltd.’s commitment to national development and sustainable empowerment.

Expanding Cataract Surgery Program to Restore Sight to 6,000 Nigerians

Following the success of its free cataract surgery program in the South-West, where 1,002 successful surgeries were performed—including for minors born blind—the NNPC Foundation is extending the initiative to the South-East and South-South regions. The program will further expand to the three Northern regions and the FCT, ensuring nationwide impact.

With cataracts accounting for over 43% of blindness cases in Nigeria, the Foundation aims to restore vision to 6,000 Nigerians by providing free screenings, surgeries, and post-operative care, with 1,000 beneficiaries per geopolitical zone. The next phase of the cataract intervention is scheduled to commence on March 31, 2025, in the South-East and South-South regions.

STEM Education Initiative: Bridging the Knowledge Gap

Recognizing the importance of STEM education in national development, the NNPC Foundation is donating 25,000 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) textbooks and branded bookshelves to 25 secondary schools across 24 states and the FCT in its second phase.

In the first phase, 15,000 STEM books were distributed to 12 states and the FCT. This initiative aims to address the lack of quality STEM learning resources, which has been a major factor in low student enrollment in science and technology disciplines in tertiary institutions.

Empowering 6,000 Farmers with Modern Agricultural Techniques

To boost food security and economic empowerment, the NNPC Foundation is launching a nationwide agricultural training program for 6,000 farmers, focusing on climate-smart farming, organic fertilization, post-harvest loss reduction, and market access strategies.

The first phase, running from April 7 to 11, 2025, will train 1,000 farmers in the South-East and South-South regions in three strategic locations across three geopolitical zones.

NNPC Foundation’s Commitment to National Development

Speaking on the significance of these interventions, Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, emphasized the Foundation’s dedication to societal transformation.

“NNPC Foundation is committed to creating meaningful change by addressing critical societal challenges. Restoring sight, equipping students with learning resources, and empowering vulnerable farmers are not just interventions but strategic investments in Nigeria’s future. These initiatives underscore NNPC Ltd.’s unwavering commitment to the health and prosperity of Nigerians,” Arukwe stated.

By implementing these transformative programs, the NNPC Foundation continues to play a crucial role in improving lives, fostering economic growth, and building a more sustainable and empowered Nigeria.

Nigeria Engages EU on Deforestation Regulation Compliance

Nigeria Engages EU on Deforestation Regulation Compliance

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability and compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), as the Minister of Environment hosted the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Mignot Gautier, and his delegation for a high-level discussion on the subject.

During the meeting, Nigeria emphasized its efforts to align agricultural and forestry practices with global standards, particularly through initiatives such as the National Forest Policy and agroforestry programs aimed at reducing deforestation and promoting sustainable land use.

To ensure seamless compliance with the EUDR, Nigeria has established a National Task Force (NTF), which includes EU representation, to coordinate stakeholders and mitigate risks associated with key agricultural commodities, particularly cocoa. In addition, the Technical Working Group (TWG), chaired by the Minister, has been developing a comprehensive compliance framework, incorporating:EU Confirms Final Approval to One-Year Delay of Deforestation Law Compliance - ESG News

✅ Polygon Mapping Traceability
✅ National Cocoa Database
✅ Capacity Building for Farmers
✅ Deforestation Analytics Using GIS
✅ Legal and Land Use Reviews
✅ Logistics Structuring for Sustainable Supply Chains

The Nigerian government has taken proactive steps by engaging relevant ministries, state governments, and multinational corporations to ensure smooth alignment with the EUDR requirements. However, the country has urged the EU to provide clearer compliance guidelines and financial support to facilitate a smooth transition for agricultural exports.

Under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Nigeria remains committed to sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental protection as key pillars of national development. The country believes that continued collaboration with the EU will not only strengthen environmental sustainability but also enhance economic growth and global trade opportunities for Nigerian agricultural products.

FG Inaugurates NEEP Back-End Office to Boost Agricultural Extension Services

FG Inaugurates NEEP Back-End Office to Boost Agricultural Extension Services

In a bid to revolutionize agricultural extension services and provide real-time solutions to Nigerian farmers, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, CON, has inaugurated the National Electronic Extension Platform (NEEP) Back-End Office in Abuja.

During the inauguration, Dr. Abdullahi emphasized that NEEP will play a crucial role in overcoming existing challenges in extension service delivery. He pointed out that the current extension agent-to-farmer ratio of 1:25,000 is grossly inadequate for effective agricultural development. With the new platform, the government aims to bridge this gap by providing farmers with instant access to essential agricultural information, innovative techniques, and best practices to boost productivity.

The Minister described NEEP as an interactive, cost-effective, and risk-free alternative to traditional extension services, particularly in areas affected by insecurity. He highlighted that the platform will be accessible in multiple languages, including English, Pidgin, Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo, ensuring that even farmers with limited formal education can benefit.

“Farmers will now be able to ask questions and receive real-time answers, while extension agents will have a comprehensive database of agricultural knowledge at their fingertips,” Dr. Abdullahi stated.

The launch of NEEP aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for national food security. The Minister expressed confidence that the platform will serve as Nigeria’s master online extension agent, empowering farmers with accurate and timely agricultural information to enhance food production and security across the country.

In his remarks, Dr. Deola Tayo Lordbanjou, Director of the Federal Department of Agricultural Extension Service, underscored the critical role of extension services in translating research findings and technological advancements into practical solutions for farmers. He stressed that agricultural research can only yield meaningful results when effectively disseminated through a well-structured extension service system.

The event was marked by the official unveiling of the NEEP Back-End Office, a major milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to modernize and digitalize agricultural extension services for improved food production and national development.

NDPC and Digital Impact Alliance Discuss Strategic Partnership on Data Protection and Artificial Intelligence

NDPC and Digital Impact Alliance Discuss Strategic Partnership on Data Protection and Artificial Intelligence

In a bid to strengthen Nigeria’s data protection landscape and enhance collaboration on digital public infrastructure, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) recently hosted a high-level delegation from the Digital Impact Alliance (DIAL). The delegation, led by Mrs. Diana Sang, engaged in a strategic discussion with Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner and CEO of NDPC, at the Commission’s headquarters.

The visit served as a platform for DIAL to explore areas of collaboration with the NDPC, particularly in raising awareness on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Mrs. Sang commended the NDPC for the impressive strides it has made since its establishment and emphasized the importance of working with the Commission to ensure responsible and secure data governance. She further revealed that DIAL would require NDPC’s technical expertise in conducting Data Privacy Impact Assessments (DPIA) for key projects across Nigeria.

NDPC’s Evolution and Growing Global Recognition

In response, Dr. Olatunji provided an insightful overview of the Commission’s transformation over the years. He highlighted the significant shift from Nigeria’s data protection framework previously governed by the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) to the more comprehensive Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act), which was signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in 2023.

He noted that the enactment of the NDP Act has marked a turning point for data protection in Nigeria, making the NDPC an independent regulatory authority with a stronger mandate to enforce compliance. According to him, this development has enhanced the global competitiveness of Nigerian businesses, as organizations now operate under a legal framework that aligns with international data protection standards.

Testing the New Data Protection Directive Through Collaboration

Dr. Olatunji further elaborated on how DIAL’s proposed project in Nigeria would serve as a significant test case for the recently released Nigeria Data Protection Act – General Application and Implementation Directive (NDP Act – GAID). Specifically, he pointed out that Schedule IV on DPIA of the NDP Act – GAID would be applied in evaluating solutions developed by 15 tech startups, which are working on digital transformation projects for various states in Nigeria.

By integrating data privacy and security into these solutions, the NDPC and DIAL aim to ensure that digital innovations comply with global best practices, reducing risks associated with data breaches, unethical AI usage, and privacy violations.

NDPC Strengthens Nigeria’s Data Protection Ecosystem

Beyond the partnership with DIAL, Dr. Olatunji reaffirmed NDPC’s commitment to driving data protection policies that foster digital transformation, attract investment, and build public trust. He also informed the delegation about Nigeria’s hosting of the upcoming Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA-RAPDP) Conference.

The conference, which brings together African data protection regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders, will serve as an avenue for Nigeria to showcase its leadership in data governance, privacy compliance, and AI regulation. It will also provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss emerging trends in data security, AI ethics, and cross-border data transfers.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Collaboration for a Secure Digital Future

Nigeria Data Protection Commission Welcomes Data Privacy Lawyers Association, Pledges Collaboration

Nigeria Data Protection Commission Welcomes Data Privacy Lawyers Association, Pledges Collaboration

 

 

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) hosted a delegation from the Data Privacy Lawyers Association of Nigeria (DPLAN) in a meeting aimed at strengthening data protection efforts in the country.

The NDPC was represented by Babatunde Bamgboye, Esq., Head of Legal, Enforcement, and Regulation, who stood in for the National Commissioner/CEO, Dr. Vincent Olatunji. The DPLAN team was led by its Membership Director, Barrister Francis Oronsaye, who expressed the association’s commitment to supporting the NDPC’s mandate.

Oronsaye stated that DPLAN seeks to partner with the Commission to advance data protection and privacy in Nigeria by offering legal representation to citizens in privacy-related cases. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in ensuring compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023).

In response, Bamgboye commended DPLAN for its initiatives and assured the delegation of the NDPC’s willingness to work together. He highlighted the need for judicial officers with expertise in data protection to ensure effective enforcement of the law.

Both parties agreed to maintain open communication and explore further areas of collaboration in the future. This meeting marks a significant step toward enhancing data privacy awareness and legal frameworks in Nigeria.