Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-02 13:28:34
ICT expert Mr. Jide Awe has given his advice to the Federal Government, suggesting that targeted awareness campaigns should be a focus in order to raise education on data protection. This recommendation comes in recognition of the National Data Privacy Week from Jan. 28 to Feb. 4. This week is organized by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) under the theme “Take Control of Your Data’’ and coincides with Global Privacy Day which is celebrated on Jan. 28 to raise awareness on data privacy.
Awe, who is also a Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy Advisor, highlighted the fact that the data privacy ecosystem in Nigeria is relatively new and emerging. Due to this, the focus should be on promoting data protection that fosters a culture of compliance rather than focusing on revenue generation in the long run. He emphasized that many people are not aware of their right to access and control their personal information, and the potential risks associated with data breaches and misuse.
In order to address these issues, Awe recommended targeted awareness campaigns tailored to different groups based on their specific risks and needs. This could include specialized approaches for children, the elderly, students, workers, organizations, and those in rural areas. Vulnerabilities and accessibility must be taken into account for impactful campaigns.
Additionally, he suggested integrating data privacy literacy into the school system and promoting career opportunities related to data privacy as part of the education system awareness. Furthermore, Awe recommended engaging citizens through workshops, developing data protection skills, and offering free or subsidized programs for wider participation.
Utilizing physical materials, online resources, social media, traditional media, and local languages as appropriate are also important aspects of the awareness campaigns. Awe stressed the promotion of a privacy-by-design culture and the need for behavioral and attitudinal shifts. He also called for increased collaboration with the NDPC.
Furthermore, Awe highlighted the fact that the data privacy ecosystem could serve as a fundamental area for fostering trust, innovation, and sustainable growth in the digital era. He emphasized the importance of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 in positioning the country as an innovative 21st-century digital economy. The law is beneficial to both individuals and organizations and helps to build trust by addressing concerns about data breaches, misuse, and lack of control.
He stated that it also helps organizations minimize their risks of non-compliance with data protection law, encourages participation, and drives economic activities. The enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 fosters responsible innovation that complies with international best practices and data protection obligations, encouraging investors to prioritize markets that foster secure, responsible data practices.
Awe stressed that the data privacy ecosystem is not just about regulation but is crucial for building a sustainable, inclusive, and trustworthy digital economy. He emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach and collaboration with the NDPC to effectively promote data protection and privacy awareness.
