The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has partnered with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to train and certify nearly 4,000 staff members on data protection compliance and best practices. This initiative was announced on Thursday during a media briefing in Abuja, marking a renewed effort to strengthen the security of Nigeria's identity database and enhance staff capacity in handling sensitive personal information according to global standards.
Commitment to Safeguarding National Identity Database
Speaking at the briefing, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIMC, Dr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, emphasized that the program reflects the agency's dedication to protecting the National Identity Database, which she described as one of the country's most critical national assets. She stated, "As the custodian of the National Identity Database, we are entrusted with one of the most sensitive and strategic national assets: the personal data of millions of Nigerians and legal residents. This responsibility demands not only secure systems but also a workforce equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical standards to safeguard personal information."
Deepening Understanding of Data Privacy Principles
Dr. Coker-Odusote explained that the training and certification program is designed to deepen staff understanding of data privacy principles, strengthen compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, and improve data governance practices across the Commission. She noted that the collaboration with the NDPC demonstrates a shared commitment to building a secure and trusted digital ecosystem that supports innovation while protecting citizens' rights. The program will equip staff with practical knowledge in data collection, processing, storage, sharing, breach prevention, and incident response, while reinforcing a culture of confidentiality and accountability.
She added, "This initiative is not merely a training exercise. It is a strategic investment in institutional capacity, public trust, and national development." The NIMC boss further noted that as digital identity becomes increasingly central to access to government services, financial inclusion, healthcare, education, and social protection programs, safeguarding personal data must remain a top priority. "Citizens must have confidence that their information is being handled responsibly, securely, and in accordance with the law," she said.
Human Capital Development in Data Protection
The National Commissioner of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, described the initiative as a major step in human capital development within the data protection ecosystem. He stressed that no system, regardless of how advanced, can function effectively without adequately trained personnel. "What we are doing here today is very significant because human capital development is key. No matter how robust your systems, policies, or technology are, without the requisite skilled personnel, you don't have much," he said.
Dr. Olatunji noted that global experiences show that many data breaches are linked to capacity gaps in data handling, and added that the Nigerian initiative aligns with international best practices aimed at reducing such risks. He described the training program, which is expected to commence on Monday, June 15, 2026, as one of the most ambitious in the sector, covering staff across the country. He also highlighted the certification component, explaining that participants will undergo structured learning designed to enhance professional competence and open up career opportunities in data protection and compliance roles.
According to him, the initiative could help develop a pool of certified professionals capable of supporting Nigeria's growing digital economy and strengthening trust in public data systems. The collaboration is part of ongoing efforts by both agencies to strengthen Nigeria's data protection framework as digital identity continues to play a central role in governance, service delivery, and economic inclusion.
