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Data Protection and People’s Rights Under Nigeria’s Data Protection Regulations (NDPR): Know Your Rights

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Data Protection and People’s Rights Under Nigeria’s Data Protection Regulations (NDPR): Know Your Rights

Data Protection and People’s Rights Under Nigeria’s Data Protection Regulations (NDPR): Know Your Rights

In a time where private information is more and more important and at risk of being exploited, safeguarding people’s privacy is now a significant priority. The implementation of the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) in 2019 in Nigeria is a major move in protecting citizens’ personal information and ensuring organizations follow legal and ethical guidelines when handling data. As the number of Nigerians participating in digital activities like online banking, e-commerce, and social media increases, the NDPR is fundamental in influencing the collection, processing, and protection of data. This article examines the main provisions of the NDPR, the privileges it provides to people, and its influence on companies and the digital environment in Nigeria.

What Is NDPR?

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) introduced the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) in January 2019. The NDPR was created to tackle the increasing concerns about personal data misuse in both private and public sectors. It is in line with worldwide data protection trends, like the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), while also meeting the unique requirements of Nigeria’s digital environment.

The goal of the regulation is to safeguard Nigerian citizens’ data from unauthorized access, exposure, or exploitation. It includes a range of industries like finance, telecom, education, health, and online shopping, which commonly involve gathering and handling personal data.

Key Provisions of the NDPR

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The NDPR outlines specific guidelines on how organizations should handle personal data. Some of the provision as outlines in NDPR guidelines are:

Data Collection and Consent: Organizations must obtain explicit consent from individuals before collecting their personal data. This ensures that data subjects are fully aware of what information is being collected, the purpose of its collection, and how it will be used.

Data Processing: The regulation mandates that personal data should only be processed for legitimate and specified purposes. Organizations must ensure that the data is accurate and kept up to date. Processing personal data for purposes other than those originally specified is not permitted without further consent from the individual.

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Data Security: One of the core elements of the NDPR is the requirement for organizations to implement adequate security measures to protect personal data. This includes safeguarding data from unauthorized access, data breaches, or any form of manipulation.

Third-Party Sharing: If personal data is to be shared with third parties, the organization must inform the data subject and obtain their consent. The third party must also adhere to the same level of data protection as stipulated by the NDPR.

Data Breach Notifications: In the event of a data breach, organizations are required to notify the affected individuals and NITDA within a specified period. This provision ensures that individuals can take action to mitigate the effects of a breach.

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People’s Rights Under The NDPR

The acknowledgement of people’s rights regarding their personal data is a key aspect of the NDPR. The rule gives Nigerians various rights to manage how their data is treated. Some of the right are:

  1. Right to be Informed: Individuals have the right to be informed about the collection and use of their personal data. Organizations are required to provide transparent information on the types of data collected, the purpose of the collection, and how long the data will be retained.
  2. Right to Access: Data subjects have the right to request access to their personal data held by an organization. This means they can inquire about the specific data collected, the reasons for its collection, and whether it has been shared with third parties.
  3. Right to Rectification: If an individual’s personal data is inaccurate or incomplete, they have the right to request that the organization correct or update the information.
  4. Right to Erasure (Right to be Forgotten): Under certain circumstances, individuals can request that their personal data be deleted. This is particularly relevant if the data is no longer necessary for the purpose it was originally collected or if the individual withdraws their consent for its processing.
  5. Right to Data Portability: This allows individuals to obtain and reuse their personal data across different services. They have the right to request that their data be transferred from one service provider to another in a commonly used, machine-readable format.
  6. Right to Object: Individuals have the right to object to the processing of their personal data in cases where the processing is based on legitimate interests or public tasks, direct marketing, or scientific/historical research.

Rights Of Individuals In Cases Of Data Misuse, Breaches, Or Use Without Consent

The NDPR grants the data subject particular rights and solutions if their data is mismanaged, disclosed, or utilized without authorization. These rights give individuals the ability to find a solution and shield themselves from additional damage. Some important rights in such situations include:

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  1. Right to lodge a complaint:

According to Section 3.1.1(e) of the NDPR, individuals have the option to file a complaint with NITDA or other authorized regulatory entities if they suspect their data has been mishandled, processed illegally, or exposed. This privilege allows people to seek legal recourse in cases of mishandling of their information by a company.

  1. Right to Compensation

The NDPR acknowledges the entitlement to receive compensation for harm caused by data breaches or unauthorized data handling. Individuals can request compensation from the data controller under section 2.10 of the NDPR if they can prove that their data rights violation resulted in harm. This clause guarantees that individuals affected by data breaches can receive compensation for any financial losses, emotional distress, or harm to their reputation.

  1. Right to withdraw consent

Individuals can revoke their consent for the processing of their personal data whenever they choose. As per Section 2.8 of the NDPR, organizations must respect these requests and stop processing the individual’s data unless there are strong legitimate reasons for the processing. This right is important when data is utilized without permission, enabling individuals to take back control of their personal information.

  1. Right to Data Erasure

If personal data is breached or used without authorization, individuals have the right to request erasure. According to Section 3.1.2(f) of the NDPR, individuals have the right to ask for the deletion of their personal data if it has been used without permission or if the reason for collecting the data is no longer valid. This right, sometimes referred to as the “right to be forgotten,” guarantees that unauthorized data use is stopped and eliminated from any future handling.

  1. Right to Restriction of Processing

If someone believes their data has been mishandled or misused, they can ask for processing restrictions under Section 2.10.2. This right enables people to halt additional data processing during ongoing investigations. It serves as a protection, making sure no additional damage occurs during the resolution of the problem.

Benefits To Individuals

When individuals’ rights are breached under the NDPR, they are eligible for certain benefits.

  • Reclaiming Privacy: Through exercising the right to be forgotten or limiting additional data processing, individuals can take back authority over their personal information and reduce the consequences of its unauthorized exploitation.
  • Financial Compensation: If individuals experience financial loss or emotional distress due to a data breach or misuse, they have the right to request financial compensation from the organization at fault. This serves as a deterrent for careless data handlers and compensates for the damages they cause.
  • Legal Remedy: By utilizing the NDPR’s complaint procedures and regulatory supervision, people have the opportunity to take legal measures or regulatory actions to hold those responsible for data misuse or breaches accountable.
  • Public Trust: The NDPR’s protections promote trust in the digital world, inspiring people to engage in online activities knowing their data rights are secure.

Compliance Requirements For Organizations

In order to comply with the NDPR, organizations must meet various obligations related to compliance. Some of these items are:

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  • Appointment of Data Protection Officers (DPOs): Organizations that process a large volume of personal data must appoint a DPO to oversee compliance with the NDPR and ensure the organization’s data practices are in line with the regulation.
  • Annual Data Protection Audit: Organizations are required to conduct annual data protection audits and submit the reports to NITDA. This process helps organizations identify potential risks and ensure that they are taking the necessary steps to protect personal data.
  • Fines for Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with the NDPR can result in significant penalties, including fines of up to 10 million Naira or 2% of an organization’s annual revenue, depending on the nature and severity of the breach.

Challenges and Gaps in NDPR Implementation

Even though the NDPR has created a strong foundation for safeguarding data in Nigeria, there are still obstacles in its execution. An important obstacle is the lack of public awareness and  law enforcement. A large number of Nigerian citizens are still not completely informed about their data rights or the responsibilities that organizations have under the NDPR. Raising public education and awareness is essential in order to give citizens the power to safeguard their privacy.

Another difficulty that must be addressed is ensuring compliance. While NITDA has made progress in encouraging adherence, there are doubts about the agency’s ability to ensure proper enforcement of regulations, especially with major international companies, government agencies and smaller domestic enterprises.

Conclusions

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The NDPR in Nigeria sets up rules for data protection and gives individuals rights to safeguard their personal information. The regulation offers various solutions, such as compensation and erasure rights, in situations where there is data misuse, breaches, or unauthorized processing. These safeguards are essential for establishing confidence in Nigeria’s fast-developing digital economy and guaranteeing the preservation of privacy in the era of digital technology. As the public becomes more aware of their data rights and enforcement becomes more rigorous, the NDPR will remain vital in influencing Nigeria’s digital future.

 

Written By Ibrahim Abuh Sani, Co-Founder, Eybrids.

 

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Abu Ibrahim Sani, Co-Founder, Eybrids

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Responsible Gambling Betting Sites

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As the on-line betting market continues to grow, it’s important for players to be aware of accountable gaming techniques. Accountable gambling wagering sites are systems that prioritize the wellness of their consumers and promote safe and liable betting behaviors.

What are Accountable Gambling Betting Sites?

Accountable gambling wagering sites are on the internet platforms that intend to avoid and resolve trouble wagering habits. These websites provide resources and tools to help customers handle their gaming routines, such as setting down payment restrictions, self-exclusion alternatives, and access to sustain solutions.

Liable gaming wagering sites additionally advertise openness and justness in their procedures, guaranteeing that consumers recognize the threats connected with betting and supplying information on just how to seek aid if needed.

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By promoting accountable gaming methods, these websites aim to develop a risk-free and satisfying environment https://www.trustpilot.com/review/clarohorizonte.com for all players, while minimizing the possible injury that can be related to problem gaming.

  • Establishing down payment limitations
  • Self-exclusion options
  • Access to sustain solutions
  • Advertising openness and fairness

Exactly How to Determine Liable Gambling Betting Sites

There are numerous key signs that can assist you determine liable gaming wagering sites. Try to find systems that plainly display details on accountable gambling, consisting of web links to support services and resources for handling gambling habits.

Liable gaming wagering websites often have devoted sections on their internet sites that outline their dedication to advertising safe and responsible betting practices. They might additionally show logo designs or qualifications from organizations that concentrate on responsible gambling, showing their commitment to this crucial concern.

Furthermore, responsible gambling wagering websites normally give tools and attributes that permit users to set limitations on their betting activity, such as deposit limitations, time frame, and self-exclusion choices. These functions help individuals take control of their gambling behaviors and stop excessive or damaging actions.

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The Relevance of Accountable Gaming

Liable gaming is crucial for safeguarding players from the prospective harms of issue gaming. By advertising responsible betting practices, betting sites can help avoid dependency, economic difficulty, and various other negative consequences that can arise from too much betting.

  • Safeguarding players from the damages of problem wagering
  • Preventing addiction and monetary difficulty
  • Advertising a safe and satisfying betting setting

Final thought

Responsible gaming wagering websites play an important duty in advertising safe and responsible betting behaviors. By providing sources, tools, and assistance services, these platforms assist users manage their betting habits and reduce the threats associated with trouble betting.

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Inclusive Development Launches Policy Guide to Strengthen Civic Engagement in Nigeria

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A youth-led organisation, Inclusive Development (INCLUDE), has unveiled the Change-Maker’s Public Policy Guide, a new resource aimed at empowering young Nigerians with the skills and knowledge needed to participate actively in governance, policymaking, and accountability processes.

The guide was launched in Abuja on Friday at the conclusion of a five-week intensive capacity-building programme designed to strengthen youth engagement in public policy development and civic participation.

Speaking during the unveiling, the Executive Director of Inclusive Development, Bukola Taiwo, said the initiative was created to address the gap between young people’s desire to influence governance and their understanding of how public policy systems operate.

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According to her, many young Nigerians are eager to contribute to governance but often lack the practical knowledge required to engage effectively with policy structures and decision-making processes.

Taiwo explained that the programme trained 20 young participants in key areas of public policy, governance, and accountability. Of the participants, 17 successfully developed policy briefs addressing critical issues affecting their communities and the country.

She noted that the trainees collaboratively developed the Change-Maker’s Public Policy Guide as a practical resource to help young Nigerians navigate policy processes at both national and sub-national levels.

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“The programme focused on amplifying the voices of young people in public policy discussions and equipping them with the skills needed to engage governance and accountability systems effectively,” she said.

She added that the guide was designed to help emerging changemakers understand how policies are formulated, identify opportunities for engagement across different levels of government, and contribute meaningfully to governance reforms.

The training programme covered several aspects of policy development and advocacy, including policy research, systems thinking, power mapping, problem analysis, and strategic storytelling.

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Participants were introduced to analytical tools such as systems change frameworks, power mapping models, and problem analysis techniques to enhance their ability to identify policy challenges and propose evidence-based solutions. The programme also highlighted the role of storytelling in shaping public discourse and influencing policy outcomes.

The initiative was organised by Inclusive Development (INCLUDE) with support from the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund and the Amandla Institute for Leadership and Policy Advancement.

Taiwo reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to empowering young people, particularly those from underserved and marginalised communities, to participate meaningfully in governance and development processes.

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Inclusive Development (INCLUDE) is a youth-led organisation dedicated to promoting equity, peace, and justice through initiatives that empower underserved populations. The organisation operates at the intersection of governance, peacebuilding, and gender justice to advance sustainable development in Nigeria and across Africa.

Stakeholders at the event described the guide as a timely intervention capable of deepening youth participation in policymaking and fostering stronger connections between citizens and governance institutions.

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Storm at NSITF as ₦297bn Workers’ Fund Allegations Trail MD/CEO Oluwaseun Mayomi Faleye

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Fresh allegations of large-scale financial irregularities, abuse of office, and governance breakdown have engulfed the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), following a series of petitions by the Arewa Revival Project, a civic accountability and good-governance advocacy group, calling for urgent investigations into the activities of the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Oluwaseun Mayomi Faleye.

The group has formally written to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation, the Federal Ministry of Finance under the Whistleblower Policy, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the NSITF Management Board, as well as organised labour bodies, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).

At the centre of the controversy are allegations involving the management of approximately ₦297,019,145,288.60 in workers’ funds collected under the Employees’ Compensation Act (ECA) between January 2 and October 9, 2025.

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Workers’ Funds, Not Government Revenue

The Employees’ Compensation Scheme is funded through compulsory employer contributions of one per cent of payroll, designed to provide compensation to Nigerian workers who suffer injury, disability, or death in the course of employment.

According to multiple senior NSITF officials cited in investigative reports, the funds administered by NSITF are not government revenue, but trust funds belonging exclusively to Nigerian workers.

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“This is not government money. This is workers’ money, contributed mandatorily under the law,” one senior official was quoted as saying. “Every kobo is supposed to be protected by layers of checks and balances.”

₦243.2bn Allegedly Spent Without Board Approval

Documents reviewed by investigators indicate that out of the total inflow of ₦297,019,145,288.60, expenditures amounting to ₦243,203,518,621.17 were recorded within the same period.

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Multiple sources allege that a significant portion of this expenditure was carried out without the approval of the NSITF Management Board, in violation of the NSITF Act and existing federal financial regulations.

Officials familiar with the records described the development as a “complete collapse of safeguards” meant to protect workers’ funds.

‘No Approval Limit’ Resolution Raises Alarm

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Central to the allegations is an internal document dated March 4, 2025, reportedly extracted from the minutes of the 46th Executive Committee (EXCO) meeting of NSITF, chaired by Mr. Faleye.

According to the document, financial approval limits were set as follows:

  • Other General Managers: ₦25,000
  • General Manager (Finance): ₦50,000
  • Other Executive Directors: ₦750,000
  • Executive Director (Finance and Investment): ₦1,000,000

However, under the same resolution, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer allegedly approved “no limit” for his own spending authority.

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Sources allege that this effectively granted Mr. Faleye unrestricted powers to approve payments of any amount without recourse to the Board or external oversight.

“He simply wrote and signed a document granting himself ‘No Approval Limit’,” a senior official disclosed. “There is absolutely no legal basis for this in the NSITF Act or federal financial regulations.”

Under existing federal thresholds, Managing Directors of government parastatals are reportedly capped at ₦30 million for works and ₦10 million for goods and services, subject to board oversight.

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Over 100 Bank Accounts Linked to One BVN

Perhaps the most startling allegation involves the operation of over 100 bank accounts allegedly linked to a single Bank Verification Number (BVN) belonging to Mr. Faleye.

Documents reportedly show that the BVN, registered on June 10, 2015, with Guaranty Trust Bank, Ajose Adeogun Branch, is associated with numerous accounts, some of which allegedly received funds traceable to NSITF operations.

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“The scale is staggering,” one insider said. “You don’t run over 100 accounts accidentally. This points to systematic structuring.”

$7.3m and Hundreds of Millions of Naira Traced

In a separate document obtained by investigators, alleged inflows of millions of dollars and hundreds of millions of naira were traced to accounts linked to Mr. Faleye and entities reportedly associated with him.

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The transactions listed include:

  • Faleye Oluwaseun Mayomisola, GTBank USD Account 0111206422 – $336,917.00
  • Faleye Oluwaseun Mayomisola, GTBank USD Account 0004754113 – $6,743,421.00
  • Faleye Oluwaseun Mayomisola, GTBank NGN Account 0004754096 – ₦291,182,605.00
  • Fides & Fiducia Client Account, Access Bank NGN Account 0718896883 – ₦584,950,000.00
  • Fides & Fiducia, Access Bank USD Account 0690403396 – $626,279.00
  • Fides & Fiducia, Zenith Bank NGN Account 1013806407 – ₦93,757,500.00
  • Pluschess Limited, Zenith Bank USD Account 071315271 – $20,000.00
  • Faleye Oluwaseun Mayomisola, GTBank USD Account 3001101016 – $75,558.00

The total dollar inflow alone is estimated at over $7.3 million, excluding naira-denominated transactions.

“These are not small transfers,” a source familiar with the documents said. “The volume, frequency, and structuring suggest deliberate efforts to move and possibly conceal funds.”

₦5.53bn Commission Payments Questioned

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Further allegations relate to commission payments totalling ₦5,533,517,486.90, allegedly approved and paid without the consent of the NSITF Management Board or the supervising Ministry.

The payments reportedly include:

  • ₦1,379,186,010.00 – Assurance Services ST ADBA Ltd (09/10/2025)
  • ₦865,000,000.00 – TAGG Global Resources Ltd (18/03/2025)
  • ₦683,777,666.40 – Rate Seal Support & Project Ltd (17/09/2025)
  • ₦659,303,810.50 – Rate Seal Support & Project Ltd (16/05/2025)
  • ₦648,750,000.00 – Rate Gold Solution Nig Ltd (16/05/2025)
  • ₦648,750,000.00 – Gold Solution Nig Ltd (01/08/2025)
  • ₦648,750,000.00 – TAGG Global Resources Ltd (01/08/2025)

Sources allege that the commissions ranged between 15 per cent and 20 per cent, and were paid without lawful authority.

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Board Absence and Governance Vacuum

Mr. Faleye was appointed Managing Director in July 2023, while the NSITF Management Board was reportedly not constituted until around January 2025, creating a governance gap of over one year.

“The Act expressly forbids Executive Management from spending funds without board approval,” a top official explained. “If there is no board, spending should not take place.”

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Arewa Revival Project Condemns Alleged Acts

Reacting to the allegations, the Arewa Revival Project, under the leadership of Hon. Muttakka Ahmed Ibrahim, condemned the alleged acts, describing them as a grave betrayal of public trust if proven.

The group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as all relevant anti-corruption and regulatory authorities, to urgently investigate the allegations to protect workers’ funds and restore confidence in public institutions.

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Responses from Officials

When contacted, Mr. Faleye reportedly stated that he was not aware of the allegations. However, when questioned about the dollar accounts and alleged inflows of over $7.3 million, he reportedly ended the call abruptly.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Mr. Salihu Usman, reportedly denied prior knowledge of the alleged transactions, while the Chairman of the NSITF Board, Mr. Shola Olofin, requested time to verify the claims.

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Presumption of Innocence

All allegations remain unproven and subject to investigation. Analysts note that the unfolding developments represent a major test of Nigeria’s public finance accountability framework, particularly in institutions entrusted with workers’ welfare.

As investigations commence, millions of Nigerian workers await answers over the safety of funds meant to protect them in times of injury, disability, and loss.

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