Tijani reaffirms commitment to data protection, Digital Trust at Global Privacy Day 2026

2026-01-30 - 05:38

By Emmanuel Elebeke Abuja — The Minister of Innovation, Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to data protection and digital trust as critical pillars for Nigeria’s digital transformation and economic growth. Dr. Tijani stated this while delivering an address at the Global Privacy Day 2026 Press Conference held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in Abuja. The minister commended the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) for its leadership in advancing discussions on data privacy and protection, noting that although the Commission is less than three years old, it has rapidly evolved into a strong and credible institution within government and society. He said the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains deliberate and focused on its vision of achieving shared prosperity, including the ambition to build a $1 trillion economy. According to him, technology is central to this goal, serving as a catalyst for economic growth, infrastructure development, job creation, and improved public service delivery. “Our responsibility at the Ministry is to ensure that digital technology enables shared prosperity—not prosperity for a few, but for every Nigerian,” Tijani said. The minister highlighted key flagship initiatives under the Ministry, including the Bridge Project, which aims to deploy 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic infrastructure nationwide, and MilCAP, an agro-connectivity programme targeting the deployment of about 4,000 telecommunications towers in rural communities. He also disclosed plans to procure two additional communication satellites, noting that Nigeria is currently the only country in West Africa with a functional communication satellite. On human capital development, Tijani said Nigeria operates the largest technology talent accelerator programme in Africa, designed to build a workforce capable of competing and creating value in the global digital economy. However, he emphasized that increased digital connectivity comes with heightened responsibility, particularly in protecting citizens’ personal data. “Data protection and privacy are the foundation of trust. Without trust, our digital economy cannot succeed,” he said. The minister noted that the signing of the Nigerian Data Protection Commission Act clearly demonstrates the Federal Government’s resolve to safeguard the rights, dignity, and personal data of Nigerians as the country accelerates its digital transformation. He described the NDPC, under the leadership of its National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, as one of the most progressive data protection authorities globally, adding that its work is vital to sustaining confidence in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. Earlier in his welcome address, Dr. Olatunji outlined the Commission’s ongoing efforts to strengthen data protection enforcement nationwide. He said the NDPC is training judges on data protection laws, collaborating with international regulatory authorities, and working closely with security agencies to combat cybercrime and the misuse of personal information. He also revealed plans to publish a list of non-compliant higher institutions as part of efforts to promote accountability and compliance with data protection regulations. Dr. Olatunji stressed that effective enforcement, public awareness, and collaboration are essential to building trust as Nigeria’s digital economy continues to expand. The press conference also featured discussions on key global and national developments in data protection and privacy, aimed at raising public awareness and reinforcing the importance of safeguarding personal data in an increasingly digital world. A highlight of the event was the presentation of an award to Dr. Tijani, who was honoured by the NDPC as Global Data Protection Champion.