Nigeria advances data protection agenda, seeks Global CBPR Forum membership

The National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji, has announced Nigeria's bid to join the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) Forum as an associate member, marking a strategic step toward strengthening the nation’s digital economy. The declaration was made during a press conference ahead of the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA-RAPDP) Conference and Annual General Meeting, set to be hosted in Nigeria. 

National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji

Dr. Olatunji stated that Nigeria’s selection to host the NADPA-RAPDP event reflects growing international confidence in the country’s data protection framework, bolstered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s signing of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) in 2023. “This conference will showcase Nigeria’s progress in building a privacy-resilient economy and highlight our vibrant cultural heritage,” he stated. 

The Commissioner linked Nigeria’s CBPR Forum application to President Tinubu’s vision of growing Nigeria into a $3 trillion digital economy. “Membership will enhance cross-border data flows while safeguarding citizens’ privacy rights and national data sovereignty,” he explained, adding that the NDPA provides a robust legal foundation for such international collaborations. 

Christine Harbaugh, Acting Head of the United States Mission in Nigeria, endorsed the move, calling it a “significant milestone” that signals Nigeria’s readiness as a secure hub for global digital trade. “This demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to world-class data governance, attracting investment and fostering trust,” she remarked. 

The NADPA-RAPDP conference will convene African data protection leaders to align continental strategies, with Nigeria positioned as a regional advocate for harmonized privacy standards.

By:  Kanto Kai Okanta