In a major step towards reinforcing data privacy rights in Nigeria, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has secured the support of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), the institution responsible for training judicial officers from magistrate courts to the Supreme Court.
During a courtesy visit to the NJI, the National Commissioner and CEO of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, commended the NJI’s management, led by Hon. Justice Salisu Garba Abdullahi (Rtd), for its contributions to judicial training and human capital development. He emphasized the urgent need for collaboration between both institutions to ensure judicial officers remain well-versed in privacy jurisprudence amid rapid technological advancements.
Dr. Olatunji highlighted the significance of data privacy in today’s digital era, stressing that the protection of citizens’ personal information is now a fundamental right. “It is the digital age, and the protection of the privacy of all citizens worldwide is paramount. It is now the right of all citizens to have their privacy protected. This is why countries across the globe are putting adequate measures in place to ensure enforceable data protection rights, as well as establishing data protection authorities to enforce data protection laws,” he stated.
In response, Hon. Justice Abdullahi commended the NDPC’s leadership for its remarkable progress since its establishment. He acknowledged the importance of data protection within the judiciary and pledged full collaboration in raising awareness and building capacity among judges, NJI fellows, and employees.
“The issue of data protection is very important. It is new, and judges need to be trained. The first step we should take is to review the Act that established the Commission. Additionally, there is a need for us to train our fellows on data protection,” he said.
To drive this initiative, the NDPC and NJI have set up a technical working group tasked with developing a strategic work plan for capacity building. The group is expected to present its report within days, paving the way for swift implementation.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s legal framework for data privacy, ensuring that judicial officers are equipped to uphold and enforce citizens’ digital rights in this increasingly data-driven world.
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