Sophie Smith
Thu, Jul 27, 2023 11:10 AM

NDPC Urges Organizations in Nigeria to Register for Data Protection Compliance Monitoring

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NDPC Urges Organizations in Nigeria to Register for Data Protection Compliance Monitoring
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has called on banks, telecom operators, educational institutions, government parastatals, and other organizations that collect and process data in Nigeria to register with the Commission for data protection compliance monitoring. The registration process is in line with the provisions of the Data Protection Act, which mandates all data controllers and processors to register within six months of the law's enactment. The NDPC aims to create awareness among Nigerians about their rights to data privacy and protection.

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has urged all banks, telecom operators, educational institutions, government parastatals, and other organizations that collect and process data in Nigeria to register with the Commission between now and December 2023 for data protection compliance monitoring. The National Commissioner of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, announced this during a sensitization workshop on Data Privacy & Protection held in Lagos.

The registration requirement is in accordance with the provisions of the Data Protection Act, which mandates all data controllers and data processors to register within six months of the law's enactment. Dr. Olatunji emphasized that organizations must register to ensure the preservation of individuals' rights over their data in Nigeria.

Dr. Olatunji further explained that all registered organizations would be required to file their annual audit report with the Commission between January and March each year. This step ensures accountability and transparency in data handling practices.

The NDPC is undertaking various initiatives to raise awareness among Nigerians about their rights to data privacy. Dr. Olatunji emphasized that the registration of all data controllers and processors, including banks, telecom operators, insurance companies, and schools, among others, is essential to protect individuals' data and privacy.

He highlighted some rights that data subjects possess, such as consent before data collection, the right to rectify incorrect data, data portability, erasure, refusal of processing, and others. Dr. Olatunji explained that data controllers and processors have a duty of care to secure the data entrusted to them through technological and organizational measures.

The establishment of the NDPC and the implementation of the Data Protection Act aim to increase confidence and trust in Nigeria's economy. The presence of a robust legal framework for data protection and privacy also attracts foreign direct investment.

Uche Val Obi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Managing Partner at Alliance Law Firm, emphasized the importance of this legal framework in protecting even vulnerable individuals like children. Breaches of data handling can lead to criminal consequences, including prosecution and imprisonment for defaulters.

Babatunde Bamigboye Esq., the Head of Legal Enforcement & Regulations Department at NDPC, highlighted the significance of protecting personal data in the digital space. Securing personal data is essential for individuals to protect their digital assets and prevent identity theft.

The Data Protection Bill was signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on June 12 this year. This transformation led to the NDPC's establishment as the driving force behind the implementation of the data protection law.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-07-27 News

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