By 
By Osasómé C.O
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), has called for increased collaboration to address the challenges and opportunities in the data protection ecosystem. Speaking at the 16th Annual Conference of ISACA in Abuja, Dr. Olatunji emphasized that data protection is a collective responsibility that affects everyone.
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During his closing keynote address, titled “Harnessing Digital Trust for Inclusive Financial and Technological Access,” Dr. Olatunji highlighted the crucial role of digital trust and data protection in achieving financial inclusion. He noted that as financial inclusion in Nigeria rises—from 56% in 2020 to 64% in 2023, according to the EFInA Access to Finance (A2F) Survey Report—the importance of robust data protection measures also increases to safeguard all participants in the financial ecosystem.
Dr. Olatunji underscored the role of trust in the digital era, stating that operators, regulators, and users must collaborate to ensure a secure and reliable system. He advocated for strong organizational and technological measures to protect digital footprints, which are essential for fostering greater trust and confidence in digital technologies within Nigeria.
Additionally, Dr. Olatunji stressed the importance of developing indigenous digital solutions that cater to both the African continent and the global market. He provided an insightful overview of the current state of financial and technological access in Nigeria, emphasizing the vital roles that stakeholders play in building and maintaining digital trust. He also detailed the benefits of adhering to the Nigeria Data Protection (NDP) Act, asserting that data protection is foundational to ensuring inclusive access.
