The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, was the guest speaker at the bi-monthly Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Employability webinar organised by the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation of the University of Ibadan.
Speaking on the theme, “Data Resources and Protection for Inclusive Entrepreneurship Development in Nigeria,” Dr Olatunji pointed out the increasing global shift of entrepreneurs towards digital technologies and the importance of data in business growth. He explained that data has become a crucial resource for entrepreneurs, adding that “5 of Africa’s 7 unicorn startups are Nigerian,” a development that underscores the country’s strong position in the fast-growing digital and technology ecosystem.
The NDPC chief stressed the need for young entrepreneurs in Nigeria to understand how innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital services are closely tied to privacy concerns. He educated participants on legal methods for data collection and processing, and also spoke about the safe and efficient cross-border transfer of data.
Highlighting the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act, 2023), Dr Olatunji explained the practical benefits of compliance for businesses. According to him, “entrepreneurs who follow data protection laws not only build trust but also secure wider opportunities,” while warning that non-compliance could attract serious consequences.
He further outlined business opportunities that exist in the data protection ecosystem, pointing to the growing prospects within Nigeria’s digital sector. During the interactive session, he answered participants’ questions before urging entrepreneurs to “prioritise data protection and privacy as they innovate responsibly.”