The Nigeria Data Protection
Commission (NDPC) and the Minister of Interior have partnered to ensure the
integrity of the personal data of Nigerians.
The partnership deal was sealed
when the National Commissioner/CEO, Dr Vincent Olatunji, conducted an advocacy
visit to the Honourable Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, at his office
in Abuja to raise awareness about Data Protection.
According to a statement endorsed
by the Head, Media Unit at NDPC, Itunu Dosekun, National Commissioner/CEO
emphasized the increasing digitization of the world and its impact on various
aspects of human life, particularly the sharing of personal data such as names,
phone numbers, email addresses, National Identity Number (NIN) and Biometric
Verification Number (BVN); all of which are crucial in identifying individuals.
He said: "There are some
personal data that are sensitive which require additional safeguards such as
our health records, labor union affiliation, sexual orientation, and
information that can be used for discriminatory purposes."
Highlighting the global focus on
safeguarding online identities, Dr Olatunji highlighted some existing
international efforts and particularly, the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA)
which ensures the protection of personal data, thus, contributing to Nigeria's
global recognition. He stressed the significance of compliance with the NDPA,
especially for the Ministry of Interior, which serves as a major data
controller due to its oversight of agencies such as the Nigeria Immigration
Service, Civil Defense, Nigerian Correctional Service, Federal Fire Service,
Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp, and the National Identity Management
Commission (NIMC).
Dr Olatunji said: "Something
as fundamental as our international passport, which now carries our NIN, serves
as our primary identity, equivalent to a social security number... we have come
to collaborate on strategies to enhance the integrity of the data of
Nigerians."
Responding, the minister
commended Dr. Olatunji, saying he is one of the most accomplished figures in
the public sector. He commended the significant strides made in establishing a
robust Data Protection ecosystem in the country within a short period.
The Minister requested a
capacity-building program from NDPC for the Ministry of Interior's workers to
enhance their understanding and application of Data Protection principles in
their daily activities. Additionally, he proposed a comprehensive Data
Protection audit spanning the ministry and its agencies.
Dr Olatunji graciously agreed to
train the Ministry of Interior's staff at no cost and outlined the process for
conducting a Data Protection Compliance Organization-led audit. Furthermore,
both the NDPC and the Ministry of Interior identified potential areas for
collaboration and partnership.
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