NCC, NDPC Sign MoU to Boost Nigeria Data Privacy

NCC, NDPC Sign MoU to Improve Nigeria Telecom Data Privacy

Telecom

Business Honor
06 February, 2026

The partnership aims to protect Nigerians’ telecom data, strengthen privacy, support AI growth, and ensure secure digital innovation.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in order to strengthen data privacy regulations in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry. In addition to ensuring convergence of laws and safeguarding citizens' online data, the agreement offers established guidelines for cooperation.

The MoU is needed for protecting Nigerians' personal information, according to Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the NDPC. Dr. Olatunji made it clear that the collaboration aims to support regulatory duties. He stated, "We want this MoU executed immediately to safeguard Nigerians' data." Both organizations would exchange knowledge, increase capacity, and advance digital data governance in Nigeria.

As Nigeria adopts digital technologies and AI, data protection in the telecom industry is essential for supporting innovation, building trust, and strengthening sector growth, according to Dr. Aminu Maida, NCC's Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) and CEO. "People create and own data, and citizens need to be aware of their rights." Dr. Maida warned, "Data can be used without permission if this awareness is lacking." In addition to this, the speaker also talked about how the telecom sector in Nigeria has been growing from 500,000 to over 170 million connected lines, and the potential role played by AI and other digital technologies in its growth in the future.

The agreement makes the regulation of telecommunications data easier and fosters a secure environment for innovation in the process by resolving the potential conflicts of the NCC and the NDPC mandates. They are dedicated to offering a safe and strong telecom sector in Nigeria, which is ready for the determined digital transformation journey. This MoU represents a significant milestone in Nigeria's effort to ensure complete data privacy in the digital economy.