The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has set a deadline for the registration of companies and organizations that handle data within the country.
Banks, telecom operators, educational institutions, government parastatals, and other data processors are urged to complete their registration with the commission by December 2023.
This move is essential for ensuring data protection compliance monitoring.
During a Data Privacy & Protection sensitization workshop held in Lagos, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of the NDPC, emphasised the importance of this registration process.
According to the Act, all data controllers and processors must register within six months of the law’s enactment.
All registered organizations will be required to submit their annual audit reports to the commission between January and March each year.
The goal is to boost awareness of data rights and ensure that all data processors and controllers in Nigeria uphold these rights.
Dr. Olatunji also highlighted the positive impacts of the registration process, such as increasing foreign direct investment in Nigeria and instilling confidence in investors.
Having robust legal frameworks in place will protect businesses and individuals alike.
Babatunde Bamigboye, the Head of Legal Enforcement & Regulations Department at NDPC, emphasised that this initiative will not only safeguard data from theft and tampering but also ensure its proper management and security.
