Experts Call for Reforms to Strengthen Nigeria’s Data Protection Laws

A coalition of policy experts, civil society leaders, and digital rights advocates has raised concerns over critical gaps in Nigeria’s data protection framework, calling for urgent reforms to safeguard sensitive national information from foreign control.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, representatives from the Centre for African Policy Research (CAFPR), Project SPRINT, and the Southern Nigerian Youth Congress expressed support for Senator Ned Nwoko’s proposed amendments to the 2023 Data Protection Act.

Their primary concern is the unregulated exposure of Nigerians’ GPS location data, tax records, and financial information—data classified as sensitive in other nations but left unprotected under current Nigerian laws.

“If we allow foreign interests to control our tax and identity records, it is as good as handing over the keys to our house,” one speaker warned, emphasising the risks of foreign corporations managing critical national data infrastructure.

Key Provisions in the Proposed Amendments Include Data Classification & Protection.

Currently, GPS location data and financial records are not classified as sensitive information in Nigeria. Experts argue that this legislative gap exposes Nigerians to privacy risks and the potential misuse of location-based data.

The bill seeks to classify GPS location data and tax records as sensitive, aligning Nigeria with global best practices.

The bill proposes that global tech companies, including Facebook and Instagram, establish physical offices in Nigeria.

With over 100 million social media users, Nigeria significantly contributes to the revenue of these platforms. Establishing local offices would generate employment, increase tax revenue, and ensure compliance with Nigerian regulations.

Also Read: Nigeria to Partner With UK on Data Protection Laws  

While digital platforms are powerful tools for information dissemination, the lack of accountability has led to rampant misinformation and harmful trends.

The bill proposes that bloggers register with more than just an email or phone number, enhancing transparency and accountability.

Critics argue that requiring physical offices for bloggers may be burdensome for young entrepreneurs, but proponents insist the move is necessary to curb reckless misinformation.

Dr Segun Adebayo, Executive Director of CAFPR, stressed that data sovereignty is as crucial as controlling natural resources.

“This is not an attack on free speech or bloggers. It is about economic inclusivity, accountability, and ensuring Nigeria has control over its digital future,” he stated.

Similarly, Mr Israel James, Country Director of Project SPRINT, emphasised that foreign access to Nigeria’s tax data poses national security risks.

“Allowing foreign entities to control our tax records is like giving a visitor the keys to your home,” he warned.

Legal experts argue that without a local presence, enforcing data protection laws and resolving disputes becomes increasingly complex. The bill’s emphasis on localising data management would ensure that Nigerian laws govern data protection, preventing undue foreign influence.

Mr Emordi Caleb, President General of the Southern Nigeria Youth Congress, highlighted that this move aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stating:

“Just as nations protect their agricultural independence by rejecting GMOs that threaten indigenous crops, Nigeria must assert control over its digital ecosystem.”

With one in every four Africans being Nigerian, the country plays a significant role in global digital engagement. Experts insist that Nigerian professionals must be actively involved in data management rather than outsourcing these responsibilities to foreign corporations.

As the debate over data sovereignty intensifies, stakeholders urge Nigerians to look beyond social media rhetoric and recognise what is truly at stake—control over the nation’s digital future.