The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has announced plans to ramp up its enforcement of data protection laws in 2025. Organizations that fail to comply with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023 will face significant fines and other penalties as part of the Commission’s strategy to enhance accountability in handling personal data.

Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of the NDPC, emphasized that the Commission will implement “massive enforcement” measures to ensure compliance. Speaking during recent engagements, he stated that organizations operating as data controllers and processors must align their practices with the NDPA to avoid sanctions.

To foster collaboration and promote compliance, the NDPC has partnered with key stakeholders across various industries, including the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC). It has also established international partnerships, such as agreements with the Data Privacy Office of Canada and the Dubai International Financial Centre Authority (DIFC), to bolster its regulatory framework.

As part of its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (NDP-SRAP 2023–2027), the NDPC will move into its second phase in 2025. This phase prioritizes creating employment opportunities within Nigeria’s burgeoning data protection ecosystem. The Commission has been actively training Nigerians to develop a pool of globally competitive experts in data privacy and security.

Public awareness campaigns will also remain a core focus. These campaigns aim to educate citizens on their data privacy rights and remind organizations of their obligations under the NDPA. The NDPC’s efforts are expected to elevate the standard of data protection across the country while safeguarding individuals’ privacy.

In May 2025, Nigeria is set to host the “Network of African Data Protection Authorities Conference,” a significant event that will bring representatives from over 40 countries to discuss advancements in data protection. This conference underscores Nigeria’s growing leadership in the field and is expected to deliver considerable economic benefits.

Organizations are encouraged to review and update their data protection practices to meet regulatory standards and avoid penalties. With the NDPC’s heightened enforcement efforts, adherence to the NDPA will not only ensure compliance but also enhance trust and credibility in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

(Sources: News Diary Online, The Nation, Science Nigeria)