The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to data protection and digital trust as key drivers of Nigeria’s digital transformation and economic growth.
Bosun Tijani, Minister of Innovation, Communications and Digital Economy, stated this while delivering an address at the Global Privacy Day 2026 Press Conference on Wednesday in Abuja.
Tijani described data protection and privacy as essential to building trust in Nigeria’s digital economy, stressing that without trust, the country’s economic ambitions cannot be achieved.
“Data protection and privacy are the foundation of trust. Without trust, our digital economy cannot succeed,” the minister said.
He commended the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) for its leadership in advancing data privacy discussions, noting that although it is less than three years old, the Commission has developed into a credible institution.
The minister said the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains focused on achieving shared prosperity, including the goal of building a $1 trillion economy, with technology playing a central role.
According to him, digital technology enables economic growth, infrastructure development, job creation, and improved public service delivery.
He added that the Ministry is committed to ensuring technology benefits all Nigerians.
Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Tijani referenced the Bridge Project, which aims to deploy 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic infrastructure nationwide, and MilCAP, an agro-connectivity programme targeting the deployment of about 4,000 telecommunications towers in rural communities.
He also disclosed plans to procure two additional communication satellites, noting that Nigeria remains the only country in West Africa with a functional communication satellite.
On human capital development, the minister said Nigeria operates Africa’s largest technology talent accelerator, designed to equip young Nigerians with skills to compete and create value in the global digital economy.
Tijani noted that the signing of the Nigerian Data Protection Commission Act underscored the Federal Government’s resolve to protect the rights and personal data of citizens as digital connectivity expands nationwide.
He described the NDPC as one of the leading data protection authorities globally, adding that its work is vital to sustaining confidence in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Vincent Olatunji outlined the Commission’s efforts to strengthen data protection enforcement, including training judges on Nigeria’s data protection laws, collaborating with international counterparts, and working with security agencies to combat cybercrime and misuse of personal data.
He also revealed plans by the Commission to publish a list of non-compliant higher institutions to promote accountability and adherence to data protection regulations.
Olatunji emphasised that effective enforcement, public awareness, and collaboration are critical to building trust as Nigeria’s digital economy expands.
The press conference also highlighted global and national developments in data protection and privacy, aimed at reinforcing public awareness on safeguarding personal data in an increasingly digital world.
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