The Regional Economic Department of the French Embassy in Nigeria and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) have launched a technical cooperation project to enhance Nigeria’s capacity in personal data protection.
The initiative marks a new phase in the growing partnership between both countries in digital governance and regulatory development.
The project builds on the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) of 2023, which established a legal framework for safeguarding citizens’ personal information. Through this cooperation, the NDPC will receive technical support to improve its institutional and operational systems. This includes training for officials, developing compliance audit methods, and designing practical tools for enforcement and awareness.
France, known for its data protection experience through bodies such as the Commission Nationale de l’Informatique et des Libertés (CNIL) and Expertise France, will provide guidance and share best practices to strengthen Nigeria’s regulatory processes.
A major component of the partnership will be a Study Tour to France later this year. The visit will enable NDPC officials to interact with French and European agencies involved in data protection, digital regulation, and public administration.
The cooperation is expected to support Nigeria’s goal of building trust in its digital ecosystem and ensuring that data protection becomes an integral part of public and private sector operations. It also reflects a shared commitment by both countries to promote responsible data governance and strengthen citizens’ rights in the digital age.
