Agency Advocates Improved Data Protection In Internet Ecosystem

The Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA)  has called for improved data protection in Nigeria’s internet ecosystem.
Its National President, Mr Adesola Akinsanya, made the call  during the  Technology Times Thought Leadership Series with the theme, “Data Protection and Connected Nigeria: Challenges, Opportunities and Possibilities” , in Lagos recently.
Akinsanya said protecting data and privacy in Nigeria’s internet ecosystem was crucial for fostering trust, innovation and sustainable digital growth.
He said it required collective effort, continuous improvement and the adaptation of evolving technologies and best practices.
“The next steps to be taken in improving Nigeria’s internet ecosystem is through advocacy and awareness.
“We must continue to advocate for stronger data protection policies, raise awareness about privacy rights and educate users to demand and practice responsible data handling. Protecting data and privacy in Nigeria’s internet ecosystem also requires regulatory compliance.
“Government must promote compliance with existing data protection laws, enhance enforcement mechanisms and introduce stricter penalties for non-compliant entities.
“Continuous innovation is also needed, we must embrace emerging technologies, promote research and development in data protection, and adapt to evolving threats and regulatory developments”, he said.
Akinsanya noted that the future holds promising possibilities for data protection in Nigeria’s internet ecosystem through biometric technology, blockchain technology and artificial intelligence.
According to him, internet-based companies can adopt best practices to ensure robust data protection through data privacy assessments, secure data transmission as well as user consent and transparency.
“Internet-based companies should conduct regular data privacy assessments to identify vulnerabilities, implement necessary safeguards and stay compliant with data protection regulations.
“They can utilise secure encryption protocols and secure socket layers (SSLs) to protect data during transmission”, he said.
Also speaking, the Chairperson, Data Privacy Professionals, Nigeria, Mrs Adaobi Olayel, said the implications of data protection for phones must be put on the front burner.
Olaye sensitised Nigerians on the need to remain careful in divulging their data to data processors and all.
She added that data subjects must demand a high level of security to secure their data.