Nigeria faces a shortfall of 480,000 certified Data Protection Officers (DPOs) despite significant progress in training and certification over the past three years, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has said.
Speaking at the opening of a one-week DPO training and certification programme in Abuja, NDPC National Commissioner Dr Vincent Olatunji said the number of certified DPOs in Nigeria had grown from fewer than 1,000 three years ago to over 10,000, with more than 27,000 professionals now operating within the broader privacy ecosystem.
However, he noted that the demand for qualified officers remains far greater, with more than 500,000 data controllers and processors requiring DPO services. “At the moment, we have about 10,000 certified DPOs to work in that space. The gap of about 480,000 still exists, which underscores the need for sustained capacity building,” Dr Olatunji said.
The NDPC is intensifying efforts to bridge this gap through continuous training programmes, positioning Nigeria as a hub for highly skilled and globally competitive data protection professionals in Africa. “Our goal is to make Nigeria the go-to country when it comes to sourcing qualified data protection officers in Africa. The certification we offer meets global standards, enabling practitioners to operate not just locally but in any part of the world,” he added.
The initiative also aligns with the Federal Government’s digital economy priorities by contributing to job creation in the technology sector.
Dr Tolu Fadipe, Head of Research and Development at NDPC, emphasised the critical role of data protection in supporting digital transformation. “As we move towards a digital economy, data becomes central, and protecting that data is essential. This training is designed to build competence and ensure organisations comply with the Nigeria Data Protection Act,” she said.
Adeola Sopade, Head Trainer and Privacy/Cybersecurity Consultant, said the programme would equip participants with foundational knowledge and practical skills required of certified DPOs. Trainees, drawn from diverse professional backgrounds, will be exposed to global best practices, including data protection principles, data subject rights, and compliance requirements. “We will take them from basic awareness to practical application, including how to handle data access requests and understand legal bases for data collection,” Ms Sopade explained.
Participant Isang Abasiofong described the training as a valuable opportunity for Nigerian youths to prepare for a technology-driven future. “The programme will equip participants with the skills needed to navigate emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and strengthen Nigeria’s readiness for the digital age,” he said.
Following the training, participants will be attached to organisations for internships and potential employment opportunities, further strengthening the country’s data protection workforce.
