The Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has announced plans to collaborate with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to train Corps Members and staff on data privacy and protection.
During a courtesy visit to the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters in Abuja, NDPC CEO Dr. Vincent Olatunji said the initiative will strengthen digital skills among Corps Members and prepare them for opportunities in Nigeria’s growing digital economy. He revealed that the commission has identified about 500,000 data processors and controllers nationwide who will require certified data protection officers, noting that the sector offers strong employment prospects and supports the Federal Government’s job creation drive.
Under the partnership, NDPC will train NYSC staff free of charge and provide access to its Virtual Privacy Academy (VPA). In addition, 100 Corps Members in each state and the FCT will be trained and certified as Data Protection Officers. Olatunji emphasized that by law, all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies must process data in line with the Nigerian Telecommunications Act 2023, and commended NYSC for being the most compliant federal agency on data protection.
NYSC Director-General Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu welcomed the collaboration, pledging to integrate the training into the Scheme’s Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme. He noted that Corps Members are highly active on social media but often lack awareness of data protection, adding that the initiative will enable them to become advocates for digital privacy.
Both agencies agreed to set up a committee to fast-track a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for nationwide implementation of the partnership.
This collaboration is expected to boost Nigeria’s digital governance framework, enhance transparency, and equip young graduates with critical skills for the future.
By Ngozi Nwankwo, Abuja
