The National Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has launched National Privacy Week 2025 with a bold vision: creating 500,000 jobs in the data protection sector.
At a press conference coinciding with Global Privacy Day, NDPC Commissioner/CEO, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, unveiled the ambitious plan, highlighting the Commission’s achievements and its growing influence in Africa.
Dr. Olatunji emphasized the NDPC’s commitment to job creation, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. A key component of this plan is the newly launched National Certification Program for Data Protection Officers. This initiative will certify DPOs domestically, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in the expanding field. The NDPC projects that this program will generate over half a million jobs, providing crucial opportunities for Nigerian youth.
“This certification program is a game-changer,” Dr. Olatunji declared. “It not only strengthens our data protection framework but also provides a pathway for young Nigerians to build careers in a rapidly growing field.”
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Beyond job creation, Dr. Olatunji showcased the NDPC’s significant progress in advancing data protection and privacy in Nigeria. He credited the Commission’s success to a clear strategic roadmap and announced that its work has earned global recognition, positioning Nigeria as a leader in African data protection. He stressed the importance of collaboration, capacity building, and public awareness campaigns in fostering a strong privacy culture.
The press conference also saw the launch of two key publications: the NDPC Annual Report, detailing the Commission’s activities and accomplishments over the past year, and the inaugural edition of the Journal on Data Protection and Privacy. The Journal will serve as a platform for researchers and experts to share insights and contribute to the ongoing conversation about data protection.
Dr. Olatunji concluded by reiterating the NDPC’s dedication to safeguarding personal data and protecting privacy rights, urging all stakeholders to collaborate in this critical mission. National Privacy Week activities are designed to further raise awareness and promote responsible data handling throughout Nigeria.