…As Nigeria gains global profile
Inconsistent judicial rulings on data privacy could weaken foreign investor confidence, even as Nigeria gains recognition in global data protection and digital governance, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Val Obi, has said.
Obi, Managing Partner of Alliance Law Firm, revealed this on Wednesday in Abuja while delivering a keynote address at the National Data Privacy Summit 2026, where he called for cross-border harmonisation of data protection regulations under the Nigeria Data Protection Act.
“The success of the Act depends on sustained commitment from regulators, industry, civil society and the judiciary,” Obi said, warning that inconsistent court decisions could create uncertainty for multinational companies and digital businesses operating in Nigeria.
He said regulatory certainty is critical to attracting foreign capital, particularly as data-driven sectors such as fintech, e-commerce and digital services expand across borders.
The warning came as the Federal Government reiterated its effort to strengthen data protection and regulate emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI).
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Nadungu Gagare, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, said unchecked deployment of AI could undermine citizens’ rights and weaken public trust.
Gagare said advances in AI, machine learning, blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT) have made data a key economic asset, increasing the need for effective regulation.
Represented by Adetunji Adeyemo, Director, National Frequency Management Council Secretariat,, he said innovation must be supported by ethical and regulatory safeguards.
“Trust is the currency of the digital age. Without it, technological solutions will not reach their potential,” Gagare said.
He added that public confidence in digital platforms depends on data security, noting that trust supports adoption of digital services, inclusion and economic growth.
According to him, the Federal Government, working with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), is strengthening regulatory frameworks, building professional capacity and increasing public awareness of data rights and responsibilities.
Also speaking, Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the NDPC, said Nigeria has become a recognised participant in global data privacy and digital governance.
Olatunji said the signing of the Nigeria Data Protection Act by President Bola Tinubu on June 12, 2023, established the NDPC as an independent regulator.
“With the creation of an independent commission, Nigeria is positioned within the global data privacy ecosystem,” he said.
He said progress made since the law was enacted has attracted international recognition beyond Africa.
According to him, the summit formed part of activities marking Global Data Privacy Day, observed annually on Jan. 28, adding that Nigeria now marks the event over a week due to increased awareness of data protection issues.
Olatunji said technological innovation, often moving faster than regulation, requires a balance between innovation and protection of personal data.
The NDPC disclosed that Nigeria’s data protection ecosystem is valued at over N16.2 billion, reflecting growth in compliance and regulatory oversight alongside the digital economy.
Stakeholders at the summit called for collaboration, ethical governance and public trust as Nigeria adopts emerging technologies to support economic growth.
The event, organised by the NDPC, had the theme “Privacy in the Era of Emerging Technologies: Trust, Ethics and Innovation.”
