Data protection officers on Thursday highlighted the positive impact of the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) on businesses, organisations and individuals.

The officers, who spoke in separate interviews in Lagos, said that the NDPR had impacted data protection awareness, compliance and career opportunities.

The Data Knowledge and Information Protection Initiative president, Tokunbo Smith, said that the NDPR has positively impacted the economy, with data audits driving responsible data practices.

Mr Smith said that the NDPR had prompted federal ministries and fostered data protection adoption across various sectors.

“The National Data Protection Commission has done a lot in advancing data protection in the country with its target to raise over 500,000 DPOs.

“It has commenced with training and certification of 500 DPOs in the country.

“That means a lot because it costs so much to get certification outside the country, especially with the devaluation of the naira,” he said.

He stressed the need for further outreach to local communities, where awareness remained limited.

Mr Smith further expressed optimism for the future of data protection in Nigeria, recognising the country’s growing global reputation in this domain.

Some DPOs noted the need for state-level regulatory bodies, apart from the NDPC, which was the national regulatory body.

Some other DPOs preferred single regulation, adding that a focus on collaboration and education seemed key to ensuring a secure digital future for Nigeria.

Grace Brown, a legal officer at Sidmach Technologies Nigeria Limited, advocated for a single, national NDPR law.

She said it would streamline compliance for businesses operating across multiple states, avoiding jurisdictional conflicts and simplifying enforcement.

Solomon Ugochukwu, a compliance officer at Investment One Financial Services shared the same view.

Mr Ugochukwu emphasised the need for uniformity, ensuring everyone who processed data adhered to the same regulations.

“This will facilitate seamless business operations across the country,’’ he said.

Taiwo Oyeleye, a medical doctor and digital health enthusiast, presented a counterpoint.

Mr Oyeleye acknowledged the benefits of a national document but noted that state-level regulations were also necessary.

She cited the diverse healthcare landscapes across Nigeria with varying infrastructure and cultural norms, saying that state-specific regulations could better address these nuances.

(NAN)