Connect with us

E-Business

FG to Improve Data Protection, Citizen’s Privacy

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Federal government has pledged its commitment to improve its capacity to protect the personal information, data and privacy of citizens, in line with global data regulations.

FG to Improve Data Protection, Citizen’s Privacy

This has become necessary given the advancement of technology and digitization, which has given rise to cases of data breaches and privacy infringements of individuals and organizations.

Dr Vincent Olatunji, national commissioner/CEO, National Data Protection Commission (NDPC) made this known on Tuesday in Abuja, at a Digital Rights Innovation Lab meeting organised by Accountability Lab Nigeria in collaboration with, Spaces for Change, National Data Protection Commission, Paradigm Initiative Nigeria, and National Endowment for Democracy.

Represented by Chiderah Claire Ikeokonkwo, head of the Innovation Unit, Nigeria Data Protection Commission, NDPC, he noted that besides educating the public on the need to protect the value of information and content shared on online platforms of the government was also committed to deepening awareness, strengthening data protection mechanisms in order to instil trust and confidence.

He said: “Everything we do these days is connected to technology and as a result of that, we need to be able to have some control over the use, the access, what exactly is being done with this information that we exchange online.

“So, at the Nigeria data protection commission we regulate the processing of personal data, which means that we superintend over issues of data protection and privacy in all sectors of the economy and so in terms of work, the kind of work that we do with civil society organizations like accountability lab, it centres around stakeholder engagements.

“We also organize trainings you know, any form of capacity building just to make sure that we are doing something to positively increase the awareness on data protection and privacy in Nigeria and to also make sure that we’re building the number of experts on the issue of data protection and privacy.

“If people are aware of what happens when they are exchanging information online, then they will be better informed about how they can protect themselves online. Because most of these platforms are free of charge. It’s free to use and then we process your information, usually based on consent.

“You sign up to this app and you exchange the information. So, it then becomes necessary for citizens, data subjects, users, whatever you would call them, to be informed about data protection laws about their digital rights so that the more that they know about these rights the better they will be in a position to actually make sure that these rights are not being abused.

“So, it’s not a question of how safe are you. I think it’s more of how much you know and how much are you willing to do to protect the value of the information that you’re sharing online

Odeh Friday Odeh, country director, Accountability Lab, said there was a need for citizens to begin to manage information and have the confidence their digital rights and data were adequately protected

Odeh who urged the federal government to uphold the total rights and privacy of Nigerians, stressed the need for a balance in order to forestall incidences of hate speech, misinformation and disinformation among users in the digital space.

He said: “Just thinking what has happened over internet governance, interment shutdown in Africa and in the world, how can we as citizens have our rights protected, how can we ensure that the Government also stands for us?

“We want national unity but we need to build the foundation on truth. Look at what tools young people are using in terms of digital tools and how they can thrive in our society.

Information is key but nevertheless, we also have thought about the challenges that have to do with content, which go on a digital platform which causes disunity in some contexts, causes hate speech in some contexts as defined, but nevertheless, we need to create a balance.

“So we are bringing this platform together with government officials, civil society organizations working on digital rights and data protection, to see how we can form collaborative or collective actions to understand how we can provide solution.”

Mnenga Shiiwua, programme officer Accountability Lab, added, “We’re looking for an innovative opportunity where we’ll be able to sensitize people and create a collaborative approach towards pushing the understanding of the Nigerian data protection Act to the citizens to engage the relevant stakeholders, those from the civil society organizations and the governments at site, to see how together we can ensure the awareness about the Act is deepened and to see how together we can protect the rights of the citizens.”

 

 

 


Kindly share this post

Nigeria CommunicationsWeek believes that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. So since 2007, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and how they affect lives.

E-Business

Konga Yakata’s Last Week: Don’t Miss Out on Incredible Deals

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Excitement is reaching a fever pitch among shoppers as the Konga Yakata Black Friday shopping fiesta enters its final week. Shoppers nationwide are gearing up for a rain of last-minute deals and irresistible offers, with the promotion set to end on Saturday, November 30, 2024.

The month-long Konga Yakata campaign, which kicked off on Friday, November 1, has delivered an unparalleled shopping experience, treating customers to incredible discounts, engaging promos, and unbeatable incentives.

In addition to massive price cuts across a wide range of products, Konga has thrilled shoppers with exciting events such as Treasure Hunts, Flash Sales, Bargain Bash, Brand Days, and specialized Black Friday packages like the Budget Store, Under 50k Store, and TGIF Epic Drop.

The highlight of the Yakata 2024 season will be this year’s Black Friday, which takes place on Friday, November 29. Thousands of customers will be able to score exclusive discounts on items including electronics, clothes, home appliances, computers, and groceries.

Reflecting on the experience so far, a satisfied anonymous shopper who snagged a TV at a discounted rate said, “Konga Yakata has been nothing short of amazing this year. The discounts are unbelievable but true, and the convenience of shopping online is unmatched.

“I’ve already made several purchases, and I’m excited to see what other deals are in store for the final week.”

Konga’s Black Friday sale has been a boon for consumers, offering respite from the economic challenges many Nigerians face. By providing access to affordable products and services, Konga has empowered shoppers to make the most of their money.

Despite the prevailing economic challenges, shoppers have embraced the Yakata season, targeting high-value deals and leveraging Konga’s tailored offerings to make significant savings. With the countdown underway, the excitement is expected to hit its peak on Friday as customers traditionally wait for that day to grab the most exclusive deals.

Speaking on the heightened anticipation, Kunle Ajani, Group Head of Marketing at Konga, stated, “We’re thrilled with the overwhelming response to Konga Yakata this year, and we’re committed to ensuring the final week delivers the biggest surprises yet.

“We are proud to offer a platform where shoppers can enjoy exceptional value, despite the economic realities.”

As the curtain closes on the 2024 Yakata season, shoppers can look forward to a flurry of last-minute deals, culminating at midnight on November 30. From tech enthusiasts to lovers of electronics and deal hunters, Konga Yakata continues to redefine the shopping experience, making it a season to remember for all Nigerians.

Take advantage of the final week of Konga Yakata. Visit Konga.com and experience the thrill of shopping at unbeatable prices.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

E-Business

NITDA DG Harps on the Role of Innovation in Nigeria’s Sustainable Development

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, the Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has reiterated the critical role of innovation in driving Nigeria’s sustainable development, economic diversification, and global competitiveness.

Inuwa made this remark while delivering a keynote address at the 8th Annual Research Fair and Exhibition of Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), where he called on academia, industry leaders, and policymakers to embrace disruptive transformational innovation as a tool for addressing the nation’s challenges and unlocking its immense potential.

Speaking on the theme, Disruptive Transformational Innovation; Shaping the Future,” Inuwa commended NSUK for organising an event that aligns with Nigeria’s pursuit of growth through knowledge-driven solutions.

Inuwa who was represented by the Deputy Director, eGovernment and Digital Economy Development Department, Engr Ya’u Garba, applauded the university’s increasing focus on transformation, noting that such initiatives reflect an understanding of the need for impactful innovations to address real-world issues.

Inuwa emphasised that while inventions remain a cornerstone of academic inquiry, their significance lies in their ability to move beyond theoretical exploration to become practical innovations. These innovations, he explained, have the power to reshape industries, tackle societal challenges, and accelerate national progress.

He urged institutions to prioritise creativity and bold thinking, ensuring that research outputs translate into tangible benefits for society.

Explaining the concept of disruptive transformational innovation, Inuwa described it as a profound force capable of altering established systems, processes, and products in ways that redefine societal functions. Unlike incremental innovations, which focus on improving existing frameworks, disruptive innovations introduce entirely new paradigms, addressing challenges in groundbreaking and previously unimaginable ways.

He cited historical examples such as the Printing Press, the Steam Engine, and Electricity, which have significantly transformed human existence and set the foundation for modern development.

Inuwa pointed out that Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources present a unique opportunity to harness innovation for sustainable development. He called for a collaborative approach involving academia, industries, and government to build an environment that nurtures creativity, supports bold investments, and encourages inclusive growth. Such an ecosystem, he said, is vital for fostering homegrown innovations that can propel Nigeria to the forefront of global technological and economic advancements.

He further highlighted NITDA’s dedication to fostering innovation through various initiatives, including the National Adopted Village for Smart Agriculture (NAVSA) to digitally transform the agricultural sector, the National Blockchain Adoption Strategy to enhance digital trust and transparency, and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy aimed at building a robust AI ecosystem in the country, among other impactful projects, which are part of the Federal Government broader strategy to position Nigeria as a leader in the global knowledge economy.

Inuwa also urged NSUK to deepen its commitment to innovation by establishing hubs that support facility-led startups, fostering collaborations with industry stakeholders, and equipping students with essential technological skills. He noted that such efforts would not only empower the university community but also contribute significantly to national development.

Inuwa expressed confidence in Nigeria’s ability to not only adopt global innovations but also create groundbreaking solutions that could influence the trajectory of Africa and the world.

He called on all stakeholders in the country to embrace the transformative power of innovation in order to drive sustainable development, economic diversification, and global relevance.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

E-Business

Data Commission, NAICOM Partner to Safeguard Data in Insurance Industry

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to protect data pilfering in the insurance industry.

Data Commission, NAICOM Partner to Safeguard Data in Insurance Industry

The agreement was finalised on Friday and aims to address critical concerns around data privacy and ensure that the insurance sector complies with global best practices in data management.

Some of the objectives of a MoU include training and capacity building to enhance awareness and skills in data protection, setting up specialized clinics to address data protection concerns and provide guidance; conducting compliance activities by regularly, monitoring and enforcing compliance with data protection regulations and educating insurance companies on the importance of data protection and the benefits of adhering to best practices.

Mr Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, commissioner for Insurance/ chief executive officer, NAICOM, said, “The collaboration marks a significant milestone in safeguarding the personal data of insurance policyholders and promoting trust in the insurance sector”.

To ensure the effective implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), an Implementation Committee will be established.

This committee will comprise representatives from the 2 agencies, as well as other key industry associations, including the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) and the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB).

The committee’s primary responsibility will be to monitor progress, provide guidance, and facilitate collaboration among stakeholders to guarantee the successful execution of the MoU.

Officials from both NAICOM and NDPC have expressed confidence in the partnership’s potential to strengthen data privacy frameworks within the insurance sector.

They noted that the initiative would boost public confidence, enhance compliance, and position the sector for greater innovation and credibility.

This collaboration is expected to pave the way for a more secure and trustworthy insurance landscape in Nigeria, ensuring the protection of personal data while fostering the industry’s growth.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Trending