How FG can increase awareness on data protection – expert

An ICT expert, Mr Jide Awe, has advised the Federal Government to engage in targeted awareness campaigns to raise education on data protection.

Awe, also a Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy Advisor, gave the recommendation on Friday in an interview with the newsmen in Abuja.

He spoke in recognition of the National Data Privacy Week from Jan. 28 to Feb. 4.

The National Privacy Week is organised by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), under the theme “Take Control of Your Data.’’

The week is celebrated alongside the Global Privacy Day commemorated on Jan. 28 which is earmarked to raise awareness on data privacy.

Awe said the data privacy ecosystem in Nigeria was relatively new, emerging; hence, the focus should be on promoting data protection that would foster compliance culture in the long run rather than revenue generation.

“Many people are not aware of the right to access, control their personal information, the potential risks associated with data breaches and misuse.

“The Nigeria Data Protection Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (NDP-SRAP) 2023-2027, charts Nigeria’s course on data privacy and building a trusted digital ecosystem.

“It outlines specific steps to address awareness and capacity building and a multifaceted approach in line with these strategies could be highly effective.

“Targeted awareness campaigns are recommended; tailored to different groups considering their specific risks and needs.’’

Awe further said the awareness can include specialised approaches for children, the elderly, students, workers, organisations and those in rural areas.”

According to him, for each group, vulnerabilities and accessibility must be considered for impactful campaigns.

The expert also recommended for data privacy literacy to be integrated into schools’ system, as well as its career opportunities promoted to be part of education system awareness.

He also suggested engaging citizens through workshops, developing data protection skills, offering of free or subsidised programmes for wider participation.

“We need to utilise physical materials, online resources, social media, traditional media and local languages as appropriate.

“There should be promotion of a privacy-by-design culture and the need for behavioural, attitudinal shifts, while the NDPC needs to collaborate more.’’

The expert explained that the data privacy ecosystem could serve as a fundamental area for fostering trust, innovation and sustainable growth in the digital era.

According to Awe, the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, positions the country as an innovative 21st-century digital economy.

He said that the law was beneficial to both individuals and organisations, adding that it helped to build trust by addressing concerns about data breaches, misuse, and lack of control.

“It helps organisations minimise their risks of noncompliance with data protection law, encourages participation and drives economic activities.

“It fosters responsible innovation that complies with international best practices and data protection obligations that encourage investors to prioritise markets that foster secure, responsible data practices,’’ he said.

Awe said that the data privacy ecosystem was not just about regulation but crucial for building a sustainable, inclusive and trustworthy digital economy.