NCC, NDPC launch joint working group to boost data protection in telecommunications sector
By Emma Ogbuehi
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) are collaborating to establish the Data Protection in Telecommunications Working Group.
The forum will be charged with the responsibility of strengthening data protection and privacy in the telecommunications sector of the country’s economy.
The Group which was inaugurated in Abuja, FCT, will safeguard the rights of Nigeria’s over 164 million mobile phone consumers.
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Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of NDPC, who confirmed the development, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the importance of protecting data subjects’ rights in the digital ecosystem. He emphasized that the synergy between NDPC and NCC would significantly contribute to Nigeria’s digital economy growth and national development.
The DPTWG has been tasked with several key responsibilities, including: Identifying Innovative Solutions: Developing innovative solutions for data protection and privacy in the telecommunications sector; Capacity Building: Facilitating capacity building for relevant stakeholders and entities in the sector; Ensuring Data Protection Practices: Ensuring the actual practice of data protection and privacy in the telecommunications sector of the Nigerian economy.
Engr. Abraham Oshadami, Executive Commissioner (Technical Services) at NCC, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to ensuring compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023) in the telecoms industry. He assured the NDPC that NCC is fully prepared to support the DPTWG in achieving its mandate.
The establishment of the DPTWG marks a significant step towards enhancing data protection and privacy in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector. As the country continues to grow its digital economy, this collaboration between NDPC and NCC will play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of Nigerian citizens.