UPDATES - Nigeria Data Protection News and Advisory

Meta, NDPC resolve $32.8m privacy dispute out of court

aliyudataprotection Nov 5, 2025 0

Meta Platforms, Inc. and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) have reached an out-of-court settlement in their dispute over a…

The main data protection law in Nigeria is the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 (NDPA), which establishes the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) as the regulatory body. It replaces the 2019 regulations and provides a comprehensive legal framework for the protection of personal data, based on principles like fairness, lawfulness, transparency, and data minimization.

ADVISORY COMPLIANCE UPDATES

Data Protection Laws in Nigeria

aliyudataprotection Nov 5, 2025 0

The main data protection law in Nigeria is the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 (NDPA), which establishes the Nigeria Data…

ADVISORY UPDATES

How to get NDPR Certificate

aliyudataprotection Nov 5, 2025 0

To get an NDPR certificate, you must first comply with the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation by implementing data protection policies…

ADVISORY COMPLIANCE UPDATES

Data privacy and Protection Act

aliyudataprotection Nov 5, 2025 0

Download Nigeria Data privacy and Protection Act. he term "Data privacy and Protection Act" most recently and specifically refers to…

The six core data protection principles that organizations must follow are: 1. Lawful, fair, and transparent processing; 2. Purpose limitation; 3. Data minimization; 4. Accuracy; 5. Storage limitation; and 6. Integrity and confidentiality. These principles ensure that personal data is collected and used responsibly, and that individual rights are respected, according to the UK GDPR and other related legislation. Lawful, fair, and transparent: Data must be processed for legitimate reasons, fairly, and with transparency towards the individual. Purpose limitation: Data should only be collected for specified, explicit, and legitimate purposes and not used for purposes incompatible with those original intentions. Data minimization: Collect only the personal data that is adequate, relevant, and necessary for the purpose for which it is being processed. Accuracy: Data must be accurate and kept up to date. Steps should be taken to rectify or erase any inaccurate data. Storage limitation: Data should be kept in a form that permits identification of the data subject for no longer than is necessary for the purposes for which the data is processed. Integrity and confidentiality: Data must be processed securely, protecting it from unauthorized or unlawful processing and against accidental loss, destruction, or damage, often through technical and organizational measures.

ADVISORY COMPLIANCE UPDATES

What are the six principles that organisations must follow to comply with the data protection Act?

aliyudataprotection Nov 5, 2025 0

The six core data protection principles that organizations must follow are: 1. Lawful, fair, and transparent processing; 2. Purpose limitation;…

Finding a data protection officer (DPO) that fits your organization involves assessing your needs, deciding between internal and external options, and evaluating candidates based on skills, independence, and experience. Step 1: Assess your organization's needs Before you begin your search, you must define the scope of the DPO's role based on your company's data processing activities. This will also help you determine if you are legally required to appoint one under regulations like the GDPR or NDPR. Review your data processing operations. Map out how your organization collects, stores, uses, and shares personal data. A DPO for a company that processes vast amounts of sensitive medical data will require different expertise than one for a small marketing firm. Determine if an appointment is mandatory. Your company's legal obligations often depend on the volume and type of data you process. For example, a DPO is typically required if your core activities involve large-scale, systematic monitoring of individuals or processing of sensitive data. Define the DPO's responsibilities. This can range from providing legal advice on privacy policies to conducting data protection impact assessments (DPIAs) and acting as a liaison with regulators and data subjects. Step 2: Choose between an internal or external DPO Each option has distinct advantages and disadvantages related to cost, expertise, and objectivity. Internal DPO External DPO Advantages • Deep knowledge of the company's internal processes and culture. • Full-time, continuous availability for staff questions and incident response. • Can build strong internal relationships and embed a privacy culture. • Access to a broad range of experience across different industries. • Can offer greater objectivity and independence, with no internal conflicts of interest. • Often more cost-effective for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). • May have professional liability insurance, which offers extra protection. Disadvantages • Potential for conflicts of interest, especially if also holding a senior management role. • May require significant, ongoing training and resources to stay current. • Might not have the same breadth of knowledge as a specialist external service. • Can lack the deep, day-to-day knowledge of your company's specific operations. • Less integrated with the company culture and internal processes. • Availability may be more limited, depending on the service contract. Step 3: Evaluate candidates based on key criteria A successful DPO needs a blend of technical, legal, and "soft" skills. Essential qualifications Expert legal knowledge: A strong understanding of relevant data protection laws (e.g., GDPR, NDPR) and regulations. Sector-specific knowledge: Expertise in handling data protection challenges within your specific industry, whether it's healthcare, finance, or marketing. Technical expertise: Sufficient understanding of information technologies and data security measures to advise on technical safeguards. Relevant experience: A track record in data protection, cybersecurity, compliance, or risk management. Certifications: Valuable credentials such as Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) or Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) from organizations like the IAPP. Critical soft skills Communication: The ability to explain complex regulations to employees, senior management, and external regulators in clear, simple terms. Leadership and influence: The confidence to report to the highest management level and advocate for data privacy, even when it conflicts with other business goals. Independence: The ability to operate without instructions regarding their DPO duties and avoid conflicts of interest. This is a core regulatory requirement. Negotiation: The savvy to find common ground with various departments and stakeholders. Step 4: Follow a structured hiring process Conduct thorough interviews to assess candidates' skills, experience, and fit for your company culture. Request references from previous companies to confirm their qualifications. Establish clear reporting lines to ensure the DPO reports directly to your highest management level, as required by law. Formalize the appointment with a written contract or service agreement that clearly defines the DPO's duties, resources, and reporting structure. Commit to ongoing support by providing the DPO with the necessary financial resources, training, and access to data to perform their duties effectively.

ADVISORY UPDATES

How to find a Data Protection Officer that fits your organisation

aliyudataprotection Oct 30, 2025 0

Finding a data protection officer (DPO) that fits your organization involves assessing your needs, deciding between internal and external options,…

UPDATES

In-house or outsourced Data Protection Officer (DPO) which is best for you?

aliyudataprotection Oct 30, 2025 0

Based on a company’s specific circumstances, the right choice between an in-house or outsourced Data Protection Officer (DPO) can be…

Which option is right for you? The best choice depends on your company's specific circumstances, such as its size, complexity, and resources. Larger companies with complex data practices may benefit more from an in-house DPO. Smaller companies may find it more cost-effective and efficient to outsource the role.

ADVISORY COMPLIANCE UPDATES

Difference between in-house Data Protection Officer and outsource the DPO

aliyudataprotection Oct 30, 2025 0

An in-house Data Protection Officer (DPO) is an employee with direct company knowledge, while an outsourced DPO is an external…

UPDATES

Which documents and policies are mandatory for compliance NDPA?

aliyudataprotection Oct 30, 2025 0

For compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023, organizations must implement a comprehensive set of documents and policies…

ADVISORY COMPLIANCE UPDATES

Step-by-Step process for NDPC compliance registration

aliyudataprotection Oct 30, 2025 0

The step-by-step process for NDPC compliance begins with documentation and internal preparation, followed by registration with the NDPC, and then…

UPDATES ADVISORY COMPLIANCE NEWS

Nigeria Data Protection News and Advisory

Meta, NDPC resolve $32.8m privacy dispute out of court

Data Protection Laws in Nigeria

How to get NDPR Certificate

Data privacy and Protection Act

What are the six principles that organisations must follow to comply with the data protection Act?

How to find a Data Protection Officer that fits your organisation

In-house or outsourced Data Protection Officer (DPO) which is best for you?

Difference between in-house Data Protection Officer and outsource the DPO

Which documents and policies are mandatory for compliance NDPA?

Step-by-Step process for NDPC compliance registration

YOU MAY HAVE MISSED

Nigeria Data Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2026: All you need to know.

Why non-compliant Businesses Are Being Locked Out of Government and Corporate Contracts

Fake Compliance Scams Target Small Businesses: How to Verify Your Data Protection Status for Free

The Beginner’s Guide to Renewing Your NDPC Data Protection Registration under the NDPA 2023