The Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration between them in protecting the privacy rights of Nigerians and improving regulatory coordination.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at the NCC Headquarters in Abuja on February 5, 2026, the Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, described the agreement as a strong example of the Federal Government’s “One Government” approach.
Dr Maida welcomed the National Commissioner of the NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, and his team, noting that no regulator can work alone in today’s interconnected digital economy.
“No regulator operates in isolation, especially in today’s complex and interconnected economy,” Dr Maida said. “When institutions move beyond discussions and work closely together, the benefits to the country are significant,” he added.
He explained that the NCC is responsible for regulating Nigeria’s communications industry and protecting the rights of both consumers and service providers, adding that since privacy rights are guaranteed under Nigeria’s Constitution, the Commission must ensure that its regulatory activities align with these constitutional protections.
Dr Maida emphasised that technological growth and increasing access to digital platforms have made privacy protection more important than ever. He noted that many Nigerians, including children and other vulnerable groups, are exposed to risks online, making strong regulatory safeguards necessary.
“The protection of privacy rights has become more critical than ever. As technology becomes part of everyday life, we must ensure proper oversight and strong compliance with the law,” he stated.
He further explained that the NDPC is legally mandated to protect personal data and prevent misuse or unlawful access to individuals’ information. Therefore, collaboration between the NCC and NDPC is essential to ensure consistency, effectiveness, and stronger enforcement.
According to Dr Maida, the partnership will help both agencies better manage issues relating to personal and non-personal data, including regulatory challenges and even national security considerations.
“Today marks an important effort to guide and unify regulatory measures at the intersection of personal and non-personal data,” he said.
Dr Maida commended both institutions for reaching this milestone and reaffirmed the NCC’s commitment to transparent regulation and to building a communications sector that supports sustainable development and economic growth in Nigeria.
He expressed confidence that the collaboration between the NCC and NDPC will deliver meaningful outcomes for the telecommunications industry and for Nigerians at large.
On his part, the National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, commended the Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, for his commitment to data protection and privacy among mobile network operators.
He emphasised the importance of data protection and privacy, and highlighted that meaningful progress in this area cannot be achieved without effective co‑operation and collaboration with regulators. He stated that prioritising privacy in the telecommunications sector cannot be overemphasised, underscoring the importance of the MoU.
Both the NDPC and the NCC agreed that the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding should commence immediately, signalling a shared commitment to strengthening data protection, regulatory co‑operation, and compliance within Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
