Abuja: The Bureau of Public Procurement and the National Data Protection Commission have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening data management and protection protocols in the country. A statement by Zira Nagga, Head of Press and Public Relations, BPP, said the agreement marked the establishment of a strategic partnership between the two agencies.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Director-General of BPP, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, called on Nigerians to embrace the culture of data protection in the interest of personal and national security. He noted that the partnership with the NDPC represents a significant step towards strengthening security protocols and ensuring regulatory compliance. Dr. Adedokun emphasized the commitment of both entities to high-level security standards, ensuring privacy and resilience in an increasingly digital landscape.
Dr. Adedokun explained that the MoU would provide a framework for cooperation, enabling both agencies to share best practices, exchange insights on data governance, and address emerging cyber threats. He stated that the BPP will continue to release authentic procurement-related information without violating provisions of the Data Protection Act and established rules on data privacy. The need for proactive measures to address data privacy challenges was stressed, particularly in regulating access to sensitive information. Furthermore, restrictions must be put in place to protect children and minors from exposure to harmful or sensitive data beyond their understanding. Dr. Adedokun warned that violators of the Data Protection Act would be held accountable, noting it is a criminal offence to divulge and release government classified data and information without authorisation.
The statement also quoted the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, as saying that the MoU was aimed at deepening collaboration between the two agencies in strengthening data privacy in the country. Dr. Olatunji highlighted that data protection had become a global concern, adding that President Bola Tinubu had approved policies to safeguard both private and national data. He asserted that protecting data also means protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens while enhancing national security and development. Efforts were ongoing to ensure data protection for underage citizens, and a national survey was being conducted to regulate and manage Nigerians’ data.
The statement added that both agencies agreed to establish a working committee to drive training for officers and implement guidelines under the partnership. It underscored the commitment of both agencies to data integrity and protection in the interest of national security and public assets.