FCC Strengthens Data Protection Drive, Deepens Partnership with NDPC

Joel Ajayi

The Federal Character Commission (FCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening data protection, transparency, and digital governance through enhanced collaboration with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

This followed a courtesy visit by the National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, who led a delegation of senior officials to the FCC headquarters in Abuja, where they were received by the Executive Chairman, Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran on Tuesday.

Welcoming the delegation, Omidiran commended the NDPC for its sustained efforts in promoting data protection and privacy awareness across Nigeria, while reaffirming the Commission’s resolve to uphold the highest standards of data governance.

“This partnership with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission is a vital step toward strengthening institutional integrity and promoting responsible data governance within the Federal Character Commission. As custodians of sensitive national data, we recognise that compliance with data protection standards is essential to building trust, ensuring fairness, and enhancing service delivery,” she stated.

She further reiterated the Commission’s ongoing digital transformation efforts, including plans to launch an official FCC website, stressing that collaboration with the NDPC is critical to ensuring compliance with global best practices.

“As we advance our digital initiatives, particularly the development of our official website, this collaboration becomes even more crucial in guaranteeing that our systems are secure, compliant, and aligned with international standards on data protection and privacy,” Omidiran added.

In his remarks, Dr. Olatunji commended the leadership of the FCC, noting its strategic importance within Nigeria’s governance architecture as a key data controller and processor.

“Compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 will not only safeguard citizens’ rights but also enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust in the Commission’s activities,” he said.

He also emphasised the importance of inter-agency collaboration in advancing effective governance and supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Collaboration between the NDPC and FCC will support effective service delivery, and we are committed to providing capacity-building support, including training programmes and certification for staff as Data Protection Officers, as well as access to the Virtual Privacy Academy,” he added.

Both organisations agreed to deepen cooperation through capacity-building initiatives, compliance frameworks, and knowledge-sharing platforms aimed at strengthening institutional efficiency and safeguarding citizens’ data.