The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance data privacy and protection in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.
The agreement, signed on February 5, 2026, at the NCC Headquarters in Abuja, is aimed at strengthening regulatory collaboration and ensuring effective enforcement of data protection laws in the rapidly expanding digital ecosystem.
L-R; Mr Gwa Tobbie Mohammed, Director Commission Secretariat, Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC; Dr Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO, Nigeria Data Protection Commission, NDPC; Dr Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, NCC; Mr. Babatunde Bamigoye, Head, Legal, Enforcement and Regulation Department, NDPC, during the singing of Memorandum of Understanding between NCC and NDPC, yesterday 5th February 2026 at the Commission’s Headquarters Abuja.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, described data protection as critical to the future of the communications sector. He stressed that proper regulation of data is necessary to sustain trust, promote innovation, and drive growth as Nigeria advance into the digital and artificial intelligence era.
Dr. Maida noted that Nigeria’s telecommunications sector has grown significantly, from about 500,000 connected telephone lines to over 170 million active connections. He said this growth reflects the NCC’s mandate to connect Nigerians, support businesses, and promote national development.
He further explained that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence rely heavily on data generated by users, emphasizing that such data belongs to the people and must be protected. According to him, lack of awareness could lead to the exploitation and monetization of personal data without users’ consent.
“The future is data. If we do not get the principles of how we govern it right, even our national sovereignty could be undermined,” Dr. Maida warned.
The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, described the MoU as a vital step toward effective data protection. He stated that collaboration with sector regulators is necessary for the successful implementation of data privacy policies.
Dr. Olatunji assured that the agreement would be implemented immediately, stressing that it would not be treated as a mere formality. He said both agencies would share expertise, build capacity, and strengthen Nigeria’s data governance framework.
He added that the partnership would help streamline regulatory processes, avoid overlapping mandates, and ensure clarity in data regulation within the communications sector.
The MoU is expected to enhance coordination between the NCC and NDPC, promote responsible data governance, and protect the personal information of millions of Nigerians using digital and telecommunications services nationwide.
