A coalition of policy experts, civil society leaders, and digital rights advocates has raised concerns over critical gaps in Nigeria’s data protection framework.
The experts called for urgent reforms to safeguard sensitive national information from foreign control.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, representatives from the Centre for African Policy Research (CAFPR), Project SPRINT, and the Southern Nigerian Youth Congress expressed support for Senator Ned Nwoko’s proposed amendments to the 2023 Data Protection Act.
Their primary concern is the unregulated exposure of Nigerians’ GPS location data, tax records, and financial information, classified as sensitive in other countries but left unprotected under current Nigerian laws.
The key Provisions in the Proposed Amendments include, Data Classification & Protection
Currently, GPS location data and financial records are not classified as sensitive information in Nigeria.
Experts argue that this legislative gap exposes Nigerians to privacy risks and potential misuse of location-based data.
The bill seeks to classify GPS location data and tax records as sensitive, aligning Nigeria with global best practices.
The bill proposes that global tech companies, including Facebook and Instagram, establish physical offices in Nigeria.
With over 100 million social media users, Nigeria significantly contributes to the revenue of these platforms.
Establishing local offices would generate employment, increase tax revenue, and ensure compliance with Nigerian regulations.
While digital platforms are powerful tools for information dissemination, the lack of accountability has led to rampant misinformation and harmful trends.
The bill proposes that bloggers register with more than just an email or phone number, enhancing transparency and accountability.
Critics argue that requiring physical offices for bloggers may be burdensome for young entrepreneurs, but proponents insist the move is necessary to curb reckless misinformation.
Dr. Segun Adebayo, Executive Director of CAFPR, stressed that data sovereignty is as crucial as controlling natural resources.
Similarly, Mr. Israel James, Country Director of Project SPRINT, emphasized that foreign access to Nigeria’s tax data poses national security risks.
As the debate over data sovereignty intensifies, stakeholders urge Nigerians to look beyond social media rhetoric and recognize what is truly at stake—control over the nation’s digital future.
COV/Bashir M
