The Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA) has called for improved data protection in Nigeria’s internet ecosystem.

Its national president, Adesola Akinsanya, made the call on Thursday in Lagos during the Technology Times Thought Leadership Series with the theme ‘Data Protection and Connected Nigeria, Challenges, Opportunities and Possibilities’.

Mr Akinsanya said protecting data and privacy in Nigeria’s internet ecosystem was crucial for fostering trust, innovation and sustainable digital growth.

He said it required collective effort, continuous improvement, and adapting evolving technologies and best practices.

“The next steps to be taken in improving Nigeria’s internet ecosystem is through advocacy and awareness. We must continue to advocate for stronger data protection policies, raise awareness about privacy rights and educate users to demand and practice responsible data handling.

“Protecting data and privacy in Nigeria’s internet ecosystem also requires regulatory compliance. Government must promote compliance with existing data protection laws, enhance enforcement mechanisms and introduce stricter penalties for non-compliant entities,” stated the NIRA boss.

Mr Akinsanya noted that the future holds promising possibilities for data protection in Nigeria’s internet ecosystem through biometric technology, blockchain technology and artificial intelligence.

According to him, adopting biometric technology, such as fingerprint and facial recognition, can enhance data security and authentication processes.

“Implementing blockchain technology can provide transparent and tamper-resistant data storage and improve data integrity and trust. Artificial Intelligence-driven solutions can help organisations identify and mitigate data breaches, analyse patterns and secure data through intelligent algorithms,” he said.

Mr Akinsanya explained that Internet-based companies should conduct regular data privacy assessments to identify vulnerabilities, implement necessary safeguards, and comply with data protection regulations.

The NIRA boss added, “They can utilise secure encryption protocols and secure socket layers (SSLs) to protect data during transmission between users and systems.

“They should also prioritise obtaining informed user consent for data collection and processing and ensure transparent and accessible privacy policies.”

(NAN)