By Milcah Tanimu
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has taken significant strides in enhancing data protection initiatives by signing two crucial Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).
Representatives from NDPC, NLRC, and SMEDAN gathered for the signing ceremony at the Headquarters of SMEDAN and NLRC, with the aim of fortifying collaboration and promoting data protection in various sectors.
SMEDAN Partnership:
The collaboration with SMEDAN focuses on promoting data protection within the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) ecosystem, which encompasses approximately 40 million SMEs. The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation, including the formation of a working group to concentrate on capacity building in data protection. The initiative aims to educate SMEs on adopting suitable technical and organizational measures to safeguard data privacy, fostering growth and trust in the sector.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of NDPC, expressed optimism about the implementation of the MoUs, highlighting the potential for short, medium, and long-term growth through the trusted use of data. He emphasized the importance of collaboration to ensure privacy and build confidence in sector transactions.
NLRC Collaboration:
The MoU with NLRC further strengthens the collaboration between NDPC and NLRC, formalizing their commitment to upholding data protection laws and implementing best practices in data storage and processing, particularly within the gaming ecosystem. Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila, Director General of NLRC, expressed gratitude for NDPC’s ongoing support and acknowledged the importance of safeguarding personal data within the gaming sector.
Dr. Olatunji stressed the significance of protecting the personal data of approximately 60 million individuals within the gaming sector. He emphasized the need to train NLRC staff and stakeholders on data protection principles to foster a culture of compliance.
SMEDAN’s Commitment:
Mr. Charles Odii, DG of SMEDAN, expressed appreciation for NDPC’s readiness to collaborate, highlighting the importance of data protection and compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023. He emphasized SMEDAN’s commitment to preventing the exposure of data for malicious purposes and the agency’s role in educating small businesses on adhering to data protection laws.
These collaborations mark significant milestones in NDPC’s mission to promote data protection and privacy across diverse sectors in Nigeria. The commission remains committed to fostering partnerships that uphold the rights of individuals and ensure the responsible handling of personal data.
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