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NDPC Marks Global Privacy Day, Launches National Privacy Week 2026
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has commemorated Global Privacy Day 2026 with a press conference that also signalled the official commencement of the 2026 National Privacy Week, themed “Privacy in the Age of Emerging Technologies: Trust, Ethics, and Innovation.”
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The event brought together key stakeholders across government and the digital ecosystem, underscoring Nigeria’s growing commitment to data protection and responsible digital innovation.
Dr Bosun Tijani Honoured as National Data Protection Champion
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the National Data Protection Champion Award to the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, in recognition of his leadership and support for Nigeria’s data protection and privacy agenda.
The award was formally presented by the National Commissioner and CEO of the NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, who praised the Minister’s role in advancing a trusted and resilient digital economy.
NDPC Records Job Creation and Ecosystem Growth
In his ecosystem briefing, Dr Olatunji explained that the core objective of National Privacy Week is to deepen nationwide awareness of data protection and privacy rights.
He highlighted major milestones achieved by the Commission, including the creation of over 23,000 jobs, in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and the growth of Nigeria’s data protection ecosystem to a value exceeding ₦16.2 billion. He also outlined the NDPC’s strategic priorities and programmes for 2026.
Nigeria Emerging as Global Leader in Data Protection
Speaking at the event, Dr Tijani commended Dr Olatunji for his visionary leadership, noting that the NDPC has positioned Nigeria as a global reference point in data protection and privacy governance.
According to the Minister, the Commission has consistently aligned Nigeria’s data protection framework with international best practices while tailoring its approach to the country’s unique digital, social, and economic realities.
High-Level Stakeholder Participation
The event attracted several dignitaries, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Engr. Nadungu Gagare; the Director-General/CEO of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mr Charles Ebuebu; and the Chief Executive Officers of NIPOST, NIGCOMSAT, and the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), among others.
National Privacy Week 2026: Dates and Activities
Global Privacy Day, also known as Data Protection Day, is observed annually on January 28. In Nigeria, it formed part of National Privacy Week 2026, which ran from January 28 to February 4, 2026, with the NDPC serving as the lead national coordinator.
During the week, private sector organisations, civil society groups, and NGOs hosted events. They published thought leadership articles, reinforcing the importance of data protection in today’s digital society.
Why Global Privacy Day Matters
Global Privacy Day serves as a global call to action. It highlights the value of personal data and promoting best practices for privacy and data protection across societies.
Empowering Individuals in the Digital Age
For individuals, the observance promotes awareness of digital rights and responsible data use by:
- Encouraging understanding of how personal data is collected, processed, and shared
- Promoting practical actions such as strong passwords, privacy controls, and two-factor authentication
- Raising awareness of cyber risks, including identity theft and phishing
- Fostering digital literacy in an era of rapidly evolving technologies
Strengthening Organisational Responsibility
For organisations and governments, Global Privacy Day reinforces the importance of:
- Building trust and credibility through strong data protection practices
- Ensuring compliance with data protection laws and regulations
- Embedding privacy into organisational culture and staff training
- Mitigating cybersecurity risks and preventing data breaches
Data Privacy as a Continuous Commitment
Ultimately, Global Privacy Day underscores that data protection is not a one-day event but an ongoing responsibility.
As digital technologies continue to evolve, sustained commitment to privacy, ethics, and trust remains essential for building a secure, inclusive, and innovative digital ecosystem.
