The Nigerian Government, through the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC), has announced plans for significant enforcement and the imposition of substantial fines on data controllers and processors who violate the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) of 2023.
This announcement was made by Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner and CEO of the NDPC, in a video shared across the Commission’s social media platforms. Dr. Olatunji outlined the Commission’s agenda for 2025, which includes a heightened focus on compliance with data protection regulations.
“For data controllers and processors, there is going to be massive enforcement,” Dr. Olatunji stated. “We have never really issued any fine, but going forward, you’ll hear us giving heavy penalties.”
He emphasized that the data rights of Nigerians, as outlined by the NDPA, will be rigorously protected. Those who fail to comply with the law will face strict penalties, signaling the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding personal data.
The Commissioner also highlighted the NDPC’s extensive efforts to engage with both public and private sector stakeholders to raise awareness and ensure compliance. He revealed plans to expand on training and certification initiatives for professionals in the data protection space. “We are going to launch them into the job market, where they can work with data controllers and processors,” he said.
Furthermore, Dr. Olatunji assured the public that the NDPC would continue its nationwide efforts to promote data protection awareness, ensuring that Nigerians’ personal information remains secure and their rights upheld.
