President Bola Tinubu has signed the Nigeria Data Protection Bill, 2023, into law. This significant development provides a legal framework for the protection of personal information and data privacy in Nigeria.
According to Dr Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau (NDPB), the bill was signed during the NDPD Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan, SRAP, validation workshop held in Abuja.
The bill was sent to the Senate and House of Representatives for consideration and passage on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, via a letter from former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The newly signed Act establishes the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, which replaces the NDPB established by President Buhari in February 2022. The Commission will be led by a National Commissioner who will have the responsibility of regulating the processing of personal information.
With the signing of this bill into law, Nigeria joins other countries that have recognized the importance of data privacy and protection in today’s digital age. The Act ensures that the use of personal information is controlled in a manner that is transparent and accountable, which will ultimately enhance user confidence while promoting the value of personal data.
The validation and implementation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, will provide citizens with greater control over their personal data, ensure the security of citizens’ information, and encourage foreign investment into Nigeria’s emerging tech sector.
The importance of data protection cannot be overstated, and President Tinubu and the National Assembly deserve commendation for enacting a law that protects the privacy and data of Nigerians.
