The Federal Government has officially launched the Youth Data Protection Awareness and Training (YDPAT) program, an initiative designed to train 5,000 Nigerian youths in data privacy and security. The launch ceremony was held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja and led by the Minister for Youth Development, Olawande Emmanuel Ayodele.
“I was honoured to officially launch the Youth Data Protection Awareness and Training (YDPAT) program at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja,” the Minister stated during his speech.
This program is a product of a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) on 15th September 2024.
It is aimed at bridging the country’s digital skills gap while increasing the number of certified Data Protection Officers (DPOs).
As Nigeria’s digital economy expands, the risks facing young people also increase. From identity theft to data breaches, cyber vulnerabilities have become a national concern. While there are over 500,000 data controllers in the country, only about 5,000 individuals are certified as DPOs. This gap is a major challenge to national data privacy and an untapped opportunity for youth empowerment.
YDPAT serves as the government’s response to this situation. Through the program, the ministry aims not only to train but also to certify 5,000 young Nigerians in data protection.
In addition to skill development, the program includes job placement and internship opportunities in partnership with industry stakeholders.
The program is structured in three steps:
1. Training (onsite and online) in two states per geopolitical zone;
2. Certification for top-performing trainees, preparing them for roles as certified DPOs;
3. Post-training engagement for continuous development and meaningful impact across communities.
To ensure broad and sustainable impact, the program is divided into four detailed phases:
a. Phase 1: Awareness Campaign
Multi-channel outreach to engage stakeholders and attract youth participation across all six geopolitical zones.
b. Phase 2: Training Delivery
Hands-on introductory training delivered online and onsite, equipping 5,000 youths with foundational skills.
c. Phase 3: Certification Pathway
Advanced certification for 1,000 top-performing participants to prepare them for official DPO roles.
d. Phase 4: Post-Training Engagement
Mentorship programs, job placement support, and an active alumni network for continuous development.
The YDPAT initiative is also in alignment with the National Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023, helping Nigeria stay competitive in the global digital economy. By developing a new wave of data protection professionals, the government is building a workforce ready for high-demand digital jobs.
YDPAT is grounded in five clear objectives:
i. Gain critical data security and privacy skills with a clear certification pathway.
ii. We establish strategic partnerships to offer job and internship placements for certified youth.
iii. Become a certified advocate promoting data privacy in your community and workplace.
iv. Deepen your understanding of Nigeria’s data protection laws and global best practices.
v. Access an online resource repository and institutional support for lifelong learning.
Eligibility requirements:
1. Must be a Nigerian
2. National Identification Number (NIN)
3. Active phone number and email address
4. At least Primary school certificate
Participants will not only acquire digital skills but also receive an official certification from the NDPC, giving them a significant edge in the job market.
How to apply:
So, if you are a young Nigerian, this is your moment to register for free. Apply HERE, and take the first step toward becoming a data protection professional.
News update (August 4, 2025:
Registration closes on 5th of September, 2025.