The national commissioner of the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji has been nominated for the Giovanni Buttarelli Award 2024.
This award, presented by the Global Privacy Assembly, recognises individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and outstanding efforts in promoting international collaboration. Olatunji’s nomination underscores his commitment to driving innovation, expanding global partnerships, and fostering a collaborative approach within the data privacy and protection ecosystem.
Under his visionary leadership, Nigeria’s data privacy ecosystem has achieved remarkable growth, marked by key milestones such as increasing awareness of data protection and privacy in both public and private institutions, recognition of the adequacy principle in cross-border data transfer by the judiciary, active participation in the regional and global data privacy ecosystem, initiation of bilateral cooperation with other jurisdictions, licensing of data protection compliance organisations, and commencement of the national data protection certification process, among others. Olatunji’s strategic and innovative initiatives have played a crucial role in establishing strong international partnerships, driving sustainable growth, and promoting a culture of collaboration. This not only propelled the NDPC to new heights but also set a benchmark for international cooperation and industry standards.
The Giovanni Buttarelli Award celebrates leaders who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and promoted collaboration at a regional or international level in the field of data privacy and protection. Nominees are evaluated based on their contributions to projects that have led to the development of innovative concepts or practices, significantly impacting the international data protection and privacy community, as well as partnerships and initiatives that enhance global cooperation and development.
Responding to his nomination, Olatunji expressed his gratitude and emphasised the importance of collective effort in achieving global progress. “I am deeply honoured to be nominated for the Giovanni Buttarelli Award 2024,” said Olatunji. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team at NDPC. It underscores the power of collaboration and the remarkable outcomes we can achieve when we work together across borders. I am excited to continue our journey, driving innovation and fostering partnerships that make a positive impact globally,” he said.
