The National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji, has expressed concern regarding the inadequate compliance with data privacy laws in the public sector, specifically highlighting challenges within the energy industry.
Dr. Olatunji stated this when he led a delegation of NDPC staff on a courtesy visit to the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Sanusi Garba, in Abuja, Nigeria.
The Chairman was represented by the Vice Chairman, Dr. Musiliu Olalekan Oseni, and other Commissioners of the NERC.
Olatunji emphasized that the persistently low level of data compliance in the public sector remains a significant concern among stakeholders, despite heightened awareness of data compliance laws in the country. He highlighted that the current level of data compliance by the public sector stands at a mere nine percent.
He proposed a capacity-building workshop to enhance awareness and understanding of data protection roles in the energy ecosystem.
The collaboration, according to Dr. Olatunji, signifies a proactive step towards safeguarding the industry’s future amidst evolving technology.
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Dr. Olatunji also noted the global shift towards digitisation and emphasised the significance of safeguarding digital identities.
He provided an overview of data protection practices both globally and within Nigeria, underscoring the consequences of data breaches and privacy violations with relevant examples.
In response, the Vice Chairman of NERC expressed the Commission’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at safeguarding personal data, recognising the potential repercussions of data breaches on revenue and reputation.
Also, the Commissioner of Finance & Management Services, NERC, Nathan Rogers Shatti, stressed the importance of data protection in light of technological advancements and affirmed the commission’s readiness to collaborate with NDPC to ensure compliance with the NDP Act, 2023.
The partnership will begin with the proposed capacity-building workshop on data protection and privacy for the energy sector, aimed at enhancing compliance.
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