Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has declared that the country’s transformation into a $1 trillion economy depends as much on digital trust as on physical infrastructure.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja to commemorate Global Data Privacy Day, under the theme “Privacy in the Age of Emerging Technologies: Trust, Ethics, and Innovation”, the Minister emphasised that while the government is making historic investments in fibre optics and satellites, these tools will only be effective if citizens feel their personal information is secure.
“Connectivity without protection is incomplete,” Dr. Tijani said. He lauded the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) for its rapid growth since its establishment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
He added, “If we lose trust in this sector, people will be discouraged from using the tools that can transform our economy. If we maintain trust, citizens will believe in these tools, and those tools will help make Nigeria prosperous.”
Dr. Tijani called on the NDPC and industry stakeholders to remain vigilant, ensuring that as Nigeria accelerates its digital journey, the rights and dignity of citizens are protected.
In his remarks, NDPC National Commissioner Vincent Olatunji highlighted the rapid evolution of Nigeria’s digital economy and assured that the commission is working to ensure innovation does not compromise citizens’ freedoms.
Olatunji shared that within just two and a half years, the number of data controllers has grown from 630 to over 38,000, while the sector’s total value has reached ₦16.2 billion, generating ₦7.2 billion in government revenue. He added that the industry has created over 23,000 jobs in less than three years.
He also issued a stern warning to non-compliant entities, revealing that 246 organizations, including major global brands, are under investigation. Following a directive from the President, the NDPC will also focus on ensuring full compliance by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Nadungu Gagare, framed data protection as a fundamental social contract between the state and citizens. “Every time a Nigerian goes online, fills out a form, or registers for a service, they are extending trust. Trust, once broken, is difficult to regain. Data privacy is not just a legal obligation; it is a social contract,” he said.
He added that under Dr. Tijani’s leadership, the ministry has positioned data protection as a driver of global economic confidence, noting that international investors increasingly prioritize nations with responsible and forward-looking data governance frameworks. He urged the media to help transition privacy from policy into a national culture, stating, “Policies create structure, but communication creates culture.”
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the National Data Privacy Champion Award to Minister Tijani by the NDPC in recognition of his efforts in championing data protection in Nigeria.
National Privacy Week continues with a Sensitisation Walk from the Federal Secretariat to Unity Fountain in Abuja on January 30, culminating in a National Privacy Summit and award dinner on February 4, 2026