The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) is gearing up to regulate emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), as part of a national strategy to address the rapidly evolving tech landscape. The National Commissioner for the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, recently highlighted the agency’s role in shaping an AI strategy to ensure that technological advances in the country adhere to ethical standards and enhance the welfare of Nigerian citizens.

During the ‘Data Protection Training for Data Protection Officer, Processors and Controllers,’ organized in partnership with the African Union, European Union Digital for Development Hub Project, and the GIZ Digital Transformation Centre, Olatunji emphasized the adaptability of the new Data Protection Act to address modern tech advancements. He stated, “The law empowers us to issue regulations to control whatever happens with emerging technologies.”

This commitment follows a recent announcement by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, who underscored the need for Nigeria to establish a national strategy to leverage AI for sustainable development, prioritizing ethical and inclusive AI innovations that broaden opportunities for all Nigerians.

The recent acceleration of the AI industry has triggered global discussions on regulation. High-profile tech leaders, including Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, have urged for regulatory frameworks to ensure AI technology is developed and utilized responsibly. At a U.S. Senate AI Insight Forum, Gates called for joint efforts by governments, the private sector, and civil society to maximize AI’s benefits while mitigating its risks. He stated, “The potential of AI is limitless — but we will only realize that potential if the government, the private sector, and civil society work together.”

Nigeria’s dedication to AI regulation was reinforced with its recent endorsement of the Bletchley Declaration, a policy paper aiming to create a unified global approach to manage current and future AI risks.

The NDPC has also been actively addressing data protection compliance among companies operating in Nigeria. According to Olatunji, the commission is currently investigating 15 firms for data protection breaches, with four cases already concluded. He noted, “The most important thing for us is to take them through remediation for them to now see compliance as a culture.”

The NDPC’s proactive stance and new data protection laws underscore Nigeria’s commitment to managing the challenges and opportunities brought by rapid technological advancement, positioning the nation as a regional leader in digital governance and responsible tech innovation.