National Commissioner/CEO, NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, Executive Commissioner (Technical Services), NCC, Engr. Abraham Oshadami (middle), and other officials at the Launch of DPTWG, in Abuja, recently.

As part of measures to boost data protection in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, the Nigerian Communications Commission NCC, and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission NDPC, have established a Joint Working Group. The Data Protection in Telecommunications Working Group DPTWG was inaugurated in Abuja, and is aimed at safeguarding the rights of Nigeria’s over 164 million mobile phone consumers.

It was also gathered that this move is in line with efforts of the government to strengthen data protection and privacy in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

Speaking at the launch, National Commissioner/CEO of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, expressed optimism that the partnership would significantly boost data protection in the sector, highlighting the importance of protecting the citizens’ data rights in the digital ecosystem. He also expressed optimism that the synergy between NDPC and NCC would significantly contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria’s digital economy.

Part of the key responsibilities of the working group include to identify and develope innovative solutions for data protection and privacy in the telecommunications sector, facilitate capacity building for relevant stakeholders and entities in the sector and promoting data protection practices by ensuring the actual practice of data protection and privacy in the telecommunications sector in Nigeria, among others.

Meanwhile, Executive Commissioner (Technical Services) of the NCC, Engr. Abraham Oshadami, while speaking at the occasion, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to ensuring compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023) in the telecoms industry. He assured the NDPC that NCC is fully prepared to support the DPTWG in achieving its mandate.

Stakeholders believe that the establishment of the DPTWG marks a significant step towards enhancing data protection and privacy in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector. As the country continues to grow its digital economy, this collaboration between NDPC and NCC will play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of Nigerian citizens.

Photo credit: NDPC.