The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to train 5,000 Nigerian youths as data protection professionals. This initiative is part of the ministry’s broader job creation strategy, aimed at equipping young people with the technical skills necessary to secure employment within the expanding data protection industry.
Speaking at the signing, Ayodele Olawande, representing the Ministry, emphasized the need to prepare the youth for the growing data protection ecosystem. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, added that with over 500,000 data controllers in Nigeria, there is a pressing demand for certified data protection officers.
Olatunji highlighted that creating trust and accountability in data management is crucial for attracting foreign direct investment. The NDPC has partnered with the Institute of Information Management (IIM) to certify data protection professionals, ensuring global competitiveness while reducing the burden on foreign exchange for certification.
In February 2024, the NDPC reported that the data protection industry had created over 10,000 jobs in 2023, a 5.7% increase from 2022. Further initiatives, such as the collaboration with the Ondo State Government, aim to address the shortage of data protection professionals and create more opportunities for Nigeria’s youth.
To enhance compliance, the NDPC imposed fines of ₦400 million on several companies in 2024 for compromising Nigerians’ data, reflecting a stronger focus on data protection. The Commission also noted that private sector compliance had reached 55%, with ongoing efforts to improve public sector compliance.
Stay well-informed and be the very first to receive all the most recent updates directly in your email! Tap here to join now for free!
