Technology
NCC Intensifies Calls for Protection of Customer Data Privacy
By Adedapo Adesanya
The Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC) has called for the exercise of authority as well as control over the mining and usage of data to increase the value of data and minimise data-related costs and risks.
The Executive Vice-Chairman (EVC) of NCC, Mr Umar Danbatta, made the call in his keynote address at the Nigeria Digital Sense Forum organised by ITRealm in Lagos on Thursday at a forum themed 5G: Data Governance, Safety and Security in Nigeria.
Mr Danbatta, represented by Dr Chukwudi Diugu, the Head of New Media and Information Security at NCC, said that data is critical to the digital economy and all must prioritise building robust legal frameworks for data governance.
He said that the amount and speed of data generated using 5G technology were unprecedented; as such, the need to always prioritise consumer privacy, transparency and ethical data use.
“By cultivating trust and handling data responsibly, we can unlock the full potential of 5G technology and promote innovation in Nigeria.
“We know Nigeria is a highly technology-driven country, and the advent of 5G technology has opened up immense opportunities and challenges, especially regarding data governance, safety, and security.
“While 5G technology has enhanced capabilities that will provide superior communications services for the socio-economic development of Nigeria and facilitate the attainment of a National Digital Economy,’’ he said.
He said, “We must consider the challenges that come with it, particularly in protecting user data privacy and safety.
Mr Danbatta said that to ensure the security and protection of networks and consumers, the NCC Act mandates its licensees to prevent their network facilities or services from being used.
The EVC said that the act prevented licensees’ networks from being used in, or in relation to, the commission of any offence under any law in operation in Nigeria.
He said that licensees were required to assist the Commission and other law enforcement agencies in preventing crime in Nigeria.
Mr Danbatta said that NCC is committed to fostering a culture of safety and security while rolling out the 5G technology.
He says it is achieved through ethical data governance practices, robust security measures, and regulatory frameworks.
He said that the successful implementation of 5G technology also depended on a collective commitment to data governance, safety, and security.
The EVC said that in order to build a safer, secure, and more inclusive digital ecosystem, all must work collaboratively, including government, regulators, operators, service providers, and individual users, to create a secure and sustainable environment for this technology to thrive.
He, however, appreciated the attention, presence at the event and partnership in a collective effort to harness the full potential of 5G technology for Nigeria’s development.
On his part, the President of Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Mr Adesina Shodiya, as the Chairman of the occasion, said that all should ensure the safe use of the internet and technology.
Mr Shodiya said that one must think of how to use it to enhance career, irrespective of the profession.
He, however, emphasised that no system was devoid of attacks, but it was important to be conscious while using technology and the internet.
In his presentation on 5G Open Access and the Role of Citizens, the Chief Executive Officer of Wisdom Computers, Mr Francis Uzor, highlighted the roles of citizens.
Adding his input, the Lead Consulting Strategist of Digital Sense Africa, Mr Remmy Nweke, said that the forum, in its 14th edition, had remained an annual rallying point for internet stakeholders.
According to Mr Nweke, the stakeholders in the country come together to discuss and proffer solutions to improving challenges around internet governance, security and socio-economic impact of internet usage.
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
Two of the major telecommunications companies in Africa, Airtel Africa Plc and MTN Group, have entered into agreements to share network infrastructure in Uganda and Nigeria.
The idea behind this is to cost operating costs and improve network coverage for quality mobile services to millions of customers, particularly in remote areas.
However, this would be carried out in compliance with local regulatory and statutory requirements.
The initiative is part of a growing global trend toward network sharing. By collaborating, telecoms operators can explore innovative and pro-competitive solutions to improve service quality while managing costs more effectively.
The sharing of infrastructure has the potential to enable the delivery of world-class, reliable mobile services to more and more customers across Africa.
Already, MTN and Airtel Africa are exploring various opportunities in other markets, including Congo-Brazzaville, Rwanda and Zambia.
Among the types of agreements considered are RAN sharing and those aimed at establishing commercial and technical agreements for fibre infrastructure sharing and, if necessary, the construction of fibre networks.
“As we compete fiercely in the market on the strength of our brand, services and our offerings we are building common infrastructure, within the permissible regulatory framework, to provide a more robust and extensive digital highway to drive digital and financial inclusion at the same time avoiding duplication of expensive infrastructure to drive operational efficiencies and benefits for our customers,” the chief executive of Airtel Africa, Mr Sunil Taldar, said.
His counterpart at MTN Group, Mr Ralph Mupita, while commenting on the development, said, “As MTN, we are driven by the vision of delivering digital solutions that drive Africa’s progress.
“We continue to see strong structural demand for digital and financial services across our markets. To meet this demand, we continue to invest in coverage and capacity to ensure high-quality connectivity for our customers.
“That said, there are opportunities within regulatory frameworks for sharing resources to drive higher efficiencies and improve returns.”
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
A mobile application, MyLagosApp, designed to provide real-time updates on events, entertainment, hospitality, transport services and government-related payments, has been launched by MTN Nigeria in partnership with the Lagos State Government.
The digital platform was created by the Software Lab in MTN, according to the Chief Information Officer of MTN Nigeria, Shoyinka Shodunke, and is embedded with global security standards and practices with ISO 27001 certification.
At the launch of the app last Thursday, it was emphasised that security was a key priority in the design and development of the app to ensure the protection of user data and secure access to the app’s features and functionalities.
MyLagosApp, currently entitled MyCityApp on the app store, is available for download on both Android and iOS platforms. Users have been encouraged to download it to experience firsthand how urban living in Lagos has been transformed with the app.
The Deputy Governor of Lagos, Mr Obafemi Hamzat, while speaking at the unveiling of the app, reinforced the government’s commitment to leveraging technology for enhanced city management and connectivity.
He described it as a demonstration of the administration’s dedication to enhancing the lives of citizens through technological innovation.
“I commend the collaboration between MTN Nigeria and the Lagos State Government, alongside other key stakeholders, for making this vision a reality.
“This partnership is a testament to the power of technology in bridging the gap between the public and private sectors to drive innovation and improve lives.
“The app serves as a vital link between the government and the people, simplifying access to public services, providing real-time updates, and promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
“Whether you need to navigate government processes, access essential city services, or stay informed about key developments, MyLagosApp places all the information you need right at your fingertips,” Mr Hamzat said on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
On his part, the chief executive of MTN Nigeria, Mr Karl Toriola, said, “As we embrace the future of e-governance, digital entertainment and commercial innovation, initiatives like this are essential in making Lagos a truly smart city, and we are proud to partner with the Lagos State Government to drive digital transformation and enhance urban living.
“With the launch of MyLagosApp, we are leveraging technology to simplify access to essential services, improve connectivity, and create a smarter, more efficient Lagos for residents and visitors alike.”
By Adedapo Adesanya
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has launched an investigation into the data processing practices of Tiktok and Truecaller, amid growing concerns over potential privacy violations.
This was disclosed, the chief executive of NDPC, Mr Vincent Olatunji, at a press conference in Abuja, where he also announced the issuance of the Nigeria Data Protection Act – General Application and Implementation Directive (NDPC act – GAID 2025).
According to Mr Olatunji, the commission is particularly concerned about how these platforms handle Nigerian users’ personal data, including potential breaches of consent, data sharing with third parties, and overall compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA), 2023.
He said the NDPC is actively investigating the data processing activities of Tiktok and Truecaller to ensure their compliance with Nigeria’s data protection laws.
He noted that the goal was to safeguard the privacy rights of Nigerians and hold organizations accountable for how they collect, store, and use personal data.
The investigation follows increasing scrutiny of global technology companies over data privacy concerns, particularly regarding how personal information is processed, stored, and transmitted beyond national borders.
The NDPC act – GAID, 2025 provides a comprehensive framework for the implementation of Nigeria’s data protection law, setting out specific guidelines for compliance, enforcement mechanisms, and obligations for both private and public sector organisations.
He emphasized that the directive aims to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy by fostering trust in data governance while ensuring that individuals’ rights to privacy are upheld in line with international best practices.
Mr Olatunji further reiterated that companies operating in Nigeria must align with the country’s data protection regulations or face regulatory actions, including fines and potential restrictions on their operations.
The NDPC has called on the public to report any data privacy violations and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and due process in its investigations.
The agency stated that reporting data breaches have become easier with dedicated channels of reaching out to the commission from its official website.
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