The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has organised a soft skills training programme for its staff as part of efforts to enhance productivity, professionalism and regulatory effectiveness.
The training, themed “Soft Skills Training Programme for NDPC Employees: Enhancing Productivity, Professionalism, and Regulatory Impact,” was declared opened by the National Commissioner/Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr Vincent Olatunji.
In his speech,Olatunji stressed the importance of human capital development to the success of every organisation, noting that the Commission has made it one of its strategic pillars in the implementation of its mandate under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023.
He said while professional qualifications remain important, soft skills are equally essential for career growth and effectiveness, particularly in the public service.
According to him, soft skills influenced how individuals are perceived and can determine their ability to build effective relationships, manage responsibilities and excel in their careers.
The National Commissioner listed some of the key skills covered by the training to include communication, emotional intelligence, problem-solving, adaptability, resilience, teamwork, time management and leadership.
Olatunji, who shared personal experiences with the participants, explained how the development of these competencies could help them become more effective and professional public servants.
He challenged NDPC staff to take full advantage of the training to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the public service, while applying the lessons learnt to their daily responsibilities.
The training featured presentations and practical sessions facilitated by the President of the Data Knowledge Information Privacy Protection Initiative (DKIPPI), Mr Tokunbo Smith; the Director of Aviation Security Regulation at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Dr Bernard Omogo; and a retired Director of Planning, Research and Statistics at the Federal Ministry of Communications and Technology, Mr Oluwole Edun.
The initiative form part of the Commission’s broader efforts to strengthen the capacity of its workforce and improve its effectiveness in delivering on its data protection and regulatory mandate.
