FG Unveils Igbo Version of Data Protection Act

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), yesterday presented the Igbo version of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023, in a move aimed at promoting inclusivity and deepening citizens’ understanding of data privacy rights.

The National Commissioner of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, represented by the Director, Ms. Sanni Fatima, unveiled the 40-page translated document during a presentation ceremony held in Enugu.

Olatunji said the translation of the Act into indigenous languages was part of government’s strategy to make it accessible, readable, and relatable to all Nigerians.

“The NDP Act, signed into law in 2023 by President Bola Tinubu, establishes the framework for protecting and lawfully processing personal data in Nigeria,” he said.

“To promote inclusivity and accessibility, the Act has been translated into the three major Nigerian languages Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo to ensure that every citizen understands their rights and obligations under the law.”

In his remarks, the National Chairman of the Association of Licensed Data Protection Compliance Organisations (ALDPCO), Dr. Ivan Anya, said the legislation was designed to safeguard Nigerians against data theft, manipulation, and invasion of privacy.

Anya noted that the Act provides sanctions for data breaches and promotes accountability among data handlers, institutions, and systems, adding that no one should suffer losses arising from unlawful data use.

He urged state governments to domesticate the NDPA for the protection of residents and to curb the activities of scammers and digital fraudsters.

Anya, who is also the Managing Director of Business Intelligence Technology Limited, called on Nigerian youths to seize opportunities in the emerging data protection industry by becoming certified and licensed Data Protection Officers (DPOs).

According to him, the Federal Government has authorised the Institute of Information Management to certify and license DPOs, while his association facilitates the required training.

“Nigerians should be mindful of whom they share their personal information with and must understand the purpose and limit of its use by any individual or organisation,” he cautioned.

The event attracted technology innovators, data management experts, representatives of financial institutions, members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and other stakeholders in the digital ecosystem.