The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing data privacy and digital trust as critical drivers of Nigeria’s digital economy at the RISE 2026 Conference of the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) in Jos, Plateau State.
As part of its participation at the conference, the Commission organised a panel session titled “Building Trust in the Digital Economy: Data Privacy as an Enabler of Inclusive Growth and Innovation,” bringing together industry experts to examine the role of data protection in accelerating digital innovation, inclusive economic growth, artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, investment confidence and responsible governance.
Representing the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, Engineer Tolulope Ibitoye, Technical Assistant to the National Commissioner/CEO, underscored the Commission’s determination to foster an enabling regulatory environment that supports innovation while safeguarding the privacy rights of Nigerians.
Speaking during the session, Ibitoye highlighted key issues surrounding cross-border data flows, responsible AI governance and the future of data protection regulation, stressing the importance of striking a balance between technological advancement and robust privacy safeguards.
She noted that effective data protection frameworks are essential for building public trust, encouraging digital transformation and positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global digital economy.
The panel session was moderated by the Chief Executive Officer of Management Edge Limited, Mr. Ayodeji Abitogun, and featured other panellists, including the Chairman of the Abuja Chapter of the Nigeria Computer Society, Andrew Agbo Abu; the Head of Compliance and Partnerships at Hexagon DataProtect, Naangwam Dariem; and the Data Protection Officer at Central Soft Support System (CS3), Esebom Ekperipe.
Beyond the panel discussion, the NDPC maintained an exhibition booth throughout the conference, where it showcased its regulatory mandate, ongoing initiatives and achievements in promoting data protection and privacy across Nigeria.
The exhibition also provided a platform for the Commission to engage stakeholders on the importance of compliance with Nigeria’s data protection laws, responsible data governance and the collective role of government, businesses and citizens in building a trusted and inclusive digital ecosystem.
The Commission’s participation at RISE 2026 reinforces its commitment to championing privacy rights while supporting innovation and sustainable growth in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
