By Oso Abidemi
The Federal Government has urged stakeholders to prioritise the ethical deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) and strengthen Nigeria’s data privacy regime, warning that unchecked technological innovation could undermine citizens’ rights and public trust.
The call was made by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Engr. Nadungu Gagare, at the opening of the Data Privacy Summit 2026 organised by the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC), in Abuja on Wednesday.
Represented by the Director, National Frequency Management Council Secretariat, Engr. Adetunji Adeyemo, Gagare said the rapid expansion of AI, machine learning, blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT) has elevated data into a core asset of the modern economy, making personal data protection more critical than ever.
He said the ministry remains committed to building an ecosystem where innovation thrives alongside robust regulatory safeguards, stressing that public confidence is essential for the growth of digital services.
“Trust is the currency of the digital age. Without it, even the most advanced technological solutions will fail to reach their full potential,” he said.
Gagare disclosed that the Federal Government, in collaboration with the NDPC, is strengthening regulatory frameworks, building capacity for data protection professionals, and increasing public awareness of data rights and responsibilities.
While acknowledging the growth of the data economy in sectors such as fintech and e-commerce, he cautioned that emerging technologies must be developed responsibly to prevent privacy violations and misuse of personal information.
He called for stronger collaboration among regulators, industry players and civil society to harmonise standards and protect Nigerians’ privacy while supporting responsible innovation.
In his remarks, the National Commissioner of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, said the signing of the Nigeria Data Protection Act by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on June 12, 2023, marked a major milestone in Nigeria’s data governance.
He noted that the law established the NDPC as an independent regulator and improved Nigeria’s standing in the global data protection ecosystem.
Olatunji said the summit offers a platform to balance innovation with privacy protection, expressing optimism that its outcomes would strengthen Nigeria’s data protection architecture and support the country’s digital economy agenda.
