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Nigeria’s Data Protection Industry Gets a Boost with Certification Program, 500 trainees in First Cohort
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has officially launched the National Certification Program for Data Protection Officers (DPOs) in Abuja. This marks a significant milestone in strengthening the country’s data protection landscape. The first cohort of the program aims to train 500 DPOs, bridging the significant skills gap in the sector.
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The initiative aligns with the Nigerian Data Protection Act 2023, which mandates Data Controllers to designate Data Protection Officers (DPOs) responsible for ensuring compliance with the Act and serving as liaisons with the regulatory body. Despite the growing importance of data protection globally, Nigeria faces a shortage of trained and certified DPOs capable of fulfilling these statutory obligations.
The Certification Program: A Step Toward Economic Growth
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, led the launch ceremony. He emphasised the critical role of the digital economy in driving Nigeria’s growth.
“The digital economy currently contributes between 14% and 16% to Nigeria’s GDP, with ambitious plans to raise this to 21% in the near future,” Tijani said. He highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s vision of transforming Nigeria into a $1 trillion economy, stating, “The only way to create meaningful jobs for a population approaching half a billion is through economic activities anchored on a thriving digital economy.”
Tijani underscored the opportunities within the data protection industry, which has become a significant global sector, offering millions of job opportunities as businesses adapt to the evolving digital landscape.
Bridging the Skills Gap in Data Protection
Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of NDPC, revealed alarming statistics during his address:
- 99% of Nigerian companies lack adequate data protection skills, compared to 34% in Europe.
- Surveys conducted by the NDPC identified over 500,000 data controllers and processors across Nigeria in need of certified DPOs.
Olatunji explained that the certification program aims to reduce the cost burden of data protection training, ensuring accessibility to Nigerians.
“Human capital is key to our strategy. As the digital economy grows, new jobs will emerge, and Nigeria must be prepared to seize these opportunities,” he said. He projected that 170 million new skills and job opportunities could be created in the sector, making digital skills pivotal for economic transformation.
Strategic Partnerships for Job Creation and Economic Growth
The event also featured insights from Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). He stressed the importance of equipping Nigerian youth with digital skills, which can reduce unemployment and enhance economic resilience.
“The digital economy is the only sector with the capacity to create jobs at this scale. By investing in programs like this, we are building the future workforce of Nigeria,” Abdullahi noted.
Key Stakeholders Show Support
The launch was attended by notable dignitaries, including:
- Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development.
- Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, MD/CEO of NIGCOMSAT.
- Lanre Gbajabiamila, DG/CEO of the NLRC.
- CP Uche Ifeanyi Henry, Director of NPF NCCC.
Their presence underscored the government’s commitment to fostering collaboration between public and private stakeholders to drive digital innovation and skills development.
Implications for Nigeria’s Digital Economy
The National Certification Program for DPOs is expected to address the skills gap, enhance data protection compliance, and support Nigeria’s journey toward becoming a global leader in the digital economy. As businesses increasingly rely on data, having a robust data protection framework will not only safeguard privacy but also attract foreign investments and create new opportunities for growth.
