Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-02 13:28:34
ICT expert, Mr. Jide Awe, has recommended that the Federal Government should conduct targeted awareness campaigns to educate the public about data protection. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Awe, who is also a Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy Advisor, made this recommendation in recognition of the National Data Privacy Week from Jan. 28 to Feb. 4.
The National Data Privacy Week is organized by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) under the theme “Take Control of Your Data.” This week is celebrated alongside Global Privacy Day, commemorated on Jan. 28, to raise awareness about data privacy.
Awe emphasized that the data privacy ecosystem in Nigeria is relatively new and emerging, and therefore the focus should be on promoting data protection to foster a culture of compliance in the long run, rather than revenue generation. He pointed out that many people are not aware of their right to access and control their personal information, as well as the potential risks associated with data breaches and misuse.
Awe also highlighted the Nigeria Data Protection Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (NDP-SRAP) 2023-2027, which outlines specific steps to address awareness and capacity building. He suggested that a multifaceted approach, including targeted awareness campaigns tailored to different groups, would be highly effective. This could include specialized approaches for children, the elderly, students, workers, organizations, and those in rural areas.
He also recommended integrating data privacy literacy into the school system and promoting career opportunities in data protection as part of the education system awareness. Additionally, Awe suggested engaging citizens through workshops, developing data protection skills, and offering free or subsidized programs for wider participation.
To reach a wider audience, he proposed the utilization of physical materials, online resources, social media, traditional media, and local languages as appropriate. He emphasized the promotion of a privacy-by-design culture and the need for behavioral and attitudinal shifts, while calling for increased collaboration by the NDPC.
Awe explained that the data privacy ecosystem could serve as a fundamental area for fostering trust, innovation, and sustainable growth in the digital era. He noted that the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 positioned the country as an innovative 21st-century digital economy. The law benefits both individuals and organizations by addressing concerns about data breaches, misuse, and lack of control.
He also emphasized that the law helps organizations minimize their risks of noncompliance with data protection regulations, encourages participation, and drives economic activities. Furthermore, it fosters responsible innovation that complies with international best practices and data protection obligations, which encourages investors to prioritize markets that foster secure, responsible data practices.
Awe concluded by stating that the data privacy ecosystem is crucial for building a sustainable, inclusive, and trustworthy digital economy, emphasizing that it is not just about regulation, but about creating an environment that fosters trust and innovation.
