The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing global data protection standards and promoting trusted digital governance during a courtesy visit to Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim.
The visit took place on the sidelines of the ongoing session of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), where delegates from member states are working to develop harmonised legal frameworks for secure and trusted cross-border digital commerce.
During the meeting, Dr. Olatunji congratulated Ambassador Ibrahim on his appointment as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations as well as his election as Chair of the United Nations Committee on Budget and Administration. He described the appointments as a reflection of Nigeria’s growing influence and leadership within the multilateral system.
The NDPC boss highlighted the Commission’s achievements since the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, noting that strategic institutional reforms have positioned Nigeria among the leading voices in the global data protection ecosystem. He stated that the country’s robust data protection framework has continued to attract international recognition, reinforcing confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy and governance architecture.
According to Dr. Olatunji, the Commission remains committed to promoting trusted data governance as a catalyst for digital transformation, innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Responding, Ambassador Ibrahim commended the leadership and staff of the NDPC for the significant progress recorded within a relatively short period following the implementation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023. He noted that the Commission’s achievements demonstrate Nigeria’s resolve to establish a modern regulatory framework capable of protecting personal data while supporting innovation and economic competitiveness.
The ambassador also advocated the establishment of a comprehensive national data bank to serve as a repository of credible and structured information for evidence based policymaking, academic research, and national development planning. He reaffirmed the commitment of Nigeria’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations to supporting initiatives that strengthen data privacy, enhance responsible digital governance, and deepen international cooperation in the digital space.
The ongoing UNCITRAL session has brought together delegates from several United Nations member states, including Nigeria, Australia, China, Ghana, France, the United States, and other jurisdictions. The meeting is focused on developing harmonised legal frameworks that will facilitate secure cross-border digital trade, strengthen international commercial cooperation, and promote greater trust in the global digital economy. Nigeria’s participation underscores its commitment to shaping international data governance standards while positioning the country as a key player in the evolving global digital landscape.
