The Federal Government on Thursday issued a circular directing all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to comply with the provisions of the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) for citizens’ data protection.
Mr Babatunde Bamigboye, Head, Legal Enforcement and Regulations of the National Data Protection Bureau (NDPB), said this in a statement issued in Abuja.
The circular was signed by Mr Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation with Ref Number SGF/OP/l/S.3/Xll/186.
“MDAs should designate appropriate officers as their Data Protection Officers (DPOs) who will on regular basis advise management on data processing activities of their organisation and ensure compliance with the provisions of the NDPR and all related matters.
“Forward the name and contact details of the DPOs to NDPB for documentation and requisite induction training.
“Appoint licensed DPCOs who will guide the MDAs through the compliance framework and file their annual reports with the NDPB.
“Make appropriate budgetary provision for annual Data Protection Audit compliance process and capacity building of Data Protection Officers as well as other staff,” he said.
Bamigboye also said that on an annual basis, they should file the report of their Data Protection Audit to the NDPB no later than March 30 of every year.
The official added that implementation of the circular was with immediate effect.
Dr Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner (NC) of NDPB, lauded the Federal Government for taking the historic step towards advancing fundamental rights and freedom of Nigerian citizens and residents particularly in the area of privacy.
Olatunji said “as an agency of government, we are cheered by this development because it clearly demonstrates the preparedness of public sector organisations and functionaries in providing an enabling environment for the growth of our digital economy.
“With this circular, over 200 million Nigerian citizens now have additional reference to call in aid in order to protect lives and livelihoods in a data driven ecosystem.”
He added that the bureau would continue to cooperate with stakeholders so that the numerous benefits of lawful data processing such as job, wealth creation could spread across the country.
Bamigboye directed MDAs to make their enquiries at the headquarters of NDPB at No. 5 Donau Crescent Maitama, Abuja or visit www.ndpb.gov.ng.