FCMB's Blessing Ehize Advocates for Data Localisation in Nigeria

At the GrowthX by Techeconomy 2026 conference held in Lagos, Blessing Ehize, the Chief Technology Officer of First City Monument Bank (FCMB), called for stronger collaboration among financial institutions, technology companies, regulators, and infrastructure providers to advance data localisation in Nigeria. She stated that data localisation is crucial for enhancing data sovereignty, cybersecurity, and trust in digital financial services.

Ehize emphasized that local data infrastructure should be seen as an opportunity to bolster Nigeria's digital capabilities rather than just a regulatory requirement. She noted that achieving data localisation goals necessitates sustained investment in infrastructure, cybersecurity, operational resilience, and technical expertise.

Collaboration among various stakeholders is essential for building the necessary capabilities for local data management and secure digital transactions. The conference also discussed the implications of the Central Bank of Nigeria's data localisation directive on banks and fintech companies, focusing on data sovereignty, consumer protection, and infrastructure investment.