The Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) said they are collaborating to promote data protection among small businesses.

In a significant move towards bolstering data protection measures in Nigeria, NDPC annouced through its verified social media account that the two entities have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance data security and privacy practices within the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector.

Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the NC/CEO of NDPC, highlighted the advantage of previous engagements with SMEDAN, emphasising the potential for meaningful progress in safeguarding data rights and promoting responsible data management practices across SMEs in Nigeria.

NDPC-SMEDAN alliance ‘to help SMEs navigate data protection’

The NDPC chief also expressed his appreciation for the seamless collaboration with SMEDAN, acknowledging the efforts of Charles Odii, the DG/CEO of SMEDAN, in facilitating the partnership.

The MoU, Olatunji said, signifies a commitment to fostering a culture of compliance with data protection regulations and standards among SMEs, which play a crucial role in the Nigerian economy. By leveraging their respective expertise and resources, NDPC and SMEDAN aim to provide SMEs with the necessary tools and guidance to navigate the complexities of data protection laws and mitigate the risks associated with data breaches and unauthorized access.

The two government agencies said that the collaborative initiative underscores the importance of proactive measures in addressing emerging challenges in data governance and underscores the commitment of both NDPC and SMEDAN towards promoting a safe and secure digital environment for businesses and individuals alike.

With data increasingly becoming a valuable asset in today’s digital economy, they said that initiatives like the MoU between NDPC and SMEDAN are essential for building trust and confidence in Nigeria’s data ecosystem, ultimately contributing to sustainable economic growth and development.