President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday, June 14 signed the Data Protection Bill into law, News About Nigeria reports.
Below are five things to know about the recently signed bill:
1)Nigeria Data Protection Act of 2023: The President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, approved and enacted the Nigeria Data Protection Bill of 2023.
This act serves as a legal framework to safeguard individuals’ personal information and regulate data protection practices within the country
2)Establishment of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission: The bill’s transformation into an act establishes the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, replacing the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau. The commission will be led by a National Commissioner responsible for overseeing the regulation of personal information processing.
3)Strengthening Data Protection Measures: The Nigeria Data Protection Act aims to fortify data protection measures in the country. It provides legal protection to individuals’ personal information, ensuring their privacy and security. The act aligns with international standards and best practices, emphasizing Nigeria’s commitment to data protection.
4)Obligations and Rights: The act outlines provisions and obligations for data controllers and processors, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and consent. Individuals now have the right to access, rectify, erase, restrict processing, object to activities, and request data portability regarding their personal data.
5)Data Security and Compliance: The act highlights the importance of data security measures, requiring controllers and processors to implement appropriate technical and organizational safeguards.
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission will conduct audits, inspections, and investigations to ensure compliance and identify potential risks or breaches.
The Nigeria Data Protection Act of 2023 marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s data protection efforts.
By establishing a comprehensive legal framework and dedicated regulatory authority, the country aims to enhance personal data protection, promote responsible data handling, and foster trust in the digital environment.
