NDPC's Dr Olatunji Advocates Data Protection in AI

Dr Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC), called for data protection safeguards in artificial intelligence (AI) development while delivering the keynote address at the International Cybersecurity Conference 2026 in Abuja. He commended the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and its Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, for organizing the conference.

Olatunji described AI as a transformational force but highlighted associated risks such as increased cybersecurity vulnerabilities, privacy violations, and misuse of personal data. He stressed that cybersecurity and data protection are essential for the growth of an AI-driven economy and the effective delivery of digital public services.

Olatunji emphasized the need for trust at every stage of the AI lifecycle, advocating for robust privacy protections, security measures, safety standards, and accountability mechanisms. He called for collaboration among regulators, technology developers, organizations, citizens, and academia to uphold data protection principles and respect individual privacy rights.