The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) have formalized a partnership aimed at advancing data privacy and protection within Nigeria’s rapidly growing telecoms sector.
With telecom subscribers rising from just 500,000 in previous years to nearly 180 million in 2025, the need for robust data governance has never been greater.
MoU to Promote Regulatory Synergy
On February 5, 2026, NCC and NDPC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance data protection and regulatory synergy in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
The agreement seeks to ensure that data generated across telecom platforms is handled responsibly, protecting users’ privacy while supporting innovation in the digital economy.
NCC Highlights Data as the Future
In a statement, Dr Aminu Maida, NCC Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, emphasized the pivotal role of data in Nigeria’s tech and AI-driven future.
“The next phase of technology growth lies in artificial intelligence, which cannot function without the data generated by users of digital platforms. If citizens are unaware of the regulations guiding their data, someone else may monetise it. Platforms that appear free often come at the cost of user data.”
Maida added that effective data governance is critical for national sovereignty. He stressed that a trusted regulatory environment and locally relevant data are essential for sustaining a resilient communication network and protecting privacy rights.
NDPC Commits to Strengthening Telecoms Data Governance
Dr Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of NDPC, clarified that the MoU would complement, not replace, the telecom regulator’s mandate.
“We are not taking over the mandate of the telecom regulator. We are adding value to what you are doing, and you add value to what we are doing.”
The framework will also help both agencies build shared capacity to strengthen Nigeria’s data protection ecosystem.
Key Objectives of the MoU
Ensure privacy and protection of Nigerians’ data in the telecoms sector.
Enhance effective data governance in telecom operations.
Foster collaboration and regulatory synergy between NCC and NDPC.
Promote adherence to the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023, which covers:
- Mandatory data protection audits
- User consent and transparency
- Data breach notifications within 72 hours
- Protection of data subject rights
The Bigger Picture
The MoU reflects Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding digital rights at a time when telecom growth, AI adoption, and digital services are accelerating. Both NCC and NDPC aim to create a regulatory ecosystem that balances innovation, security, and user privacy, ensuring that Nigeria remains a trusted hub for digital services in Africa.
