The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has gained the support of the National Judicial Institute (NJI) in its mission to protect the data privacy rights of Nigerians.
The NJI is responsible for the training of judicial officers across Nigeria, from magistrate courts to the Supreme Court.
During a recent courtesy visit to the NJI, the national commissioner of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji lauded the management of NJI, led by Hon. Justice Salisu Abdullahi (Rtd), for its significant achievements in developing human capital, particularly concerning judicial officers and institute fellows.
Olatunji emphasised the importance of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, especially in light of disruptive technologies and reiterated the necessity of collaboration with NJI to ensure that judicial officers stay informed about privacy jurisprudence. He noted that decisions about data privacy rights affecting one citizen have important implications for all citizens.
“In this digital age, protecting the privacy of all citizens worldwide is essential. Every citizen has the right to have their privacy safeguarded. This is why countries worldwide are implementing effective measures to establish enforceable data protection rights and creating data protection authorities to enforce these laws,” Olatunji stated.
In response, Abdullahi commended the NDPC for its substantial achievements under Olatunji’s leadership and pledged to work together to raise awareness about data protection and privacy within the judiciary. He accepted the NDPC’s proposal focused on capacity building for judges, NJI fellows, and staff.
“The issue of data protection is very important. It is a new field, and judges need proper training. The first step should be to review the Nigeria Data Protection Act that established the Commission. Moreover, we should train our fellows on data protection,” remarked the distinguished jurist.
According to a statement from NDPC’s head of media, Itunu Dosekun, NJI and NDPC have established a technical working group that will develop a work plan and coordinate capacity-building initiatives. The group is expected to report back shortly to kick off the implementation of these initiatives.
