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NITDA kicks off Program for National Privacy Week 2021
Mallam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, director-general, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has unveiled a week long program to mark the start of the National Privacy Week 2021.
The DG in a virtual conference with members of the press explained that the purpose of the virtual press conference for the National Privacy Week is to give Nigerians an update on where NITDA is in terms of the Data Protection Regulation implementation and its projections for 2021.
Mallam Inuwa Abdullahi further gave insights into NITDA’s quest to advance Data Protection Guideline since 2013, with the sole objective of providing a basic law to guide the use of data in the digital space.
According to him,”NITDA had issued a draft Data Protection Guideline since 2013, with the objective of providing a basic law to guide the use of data in the digital space.
“However, when the EU GDPR was issued in 2016, the then Director General of NITDA, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, constituted a team to review the draft guideline in the light of global developments and also to provide Nigerians with a practicable law for its implementation.
“The team made a couple of brilliant recommendations and got necessary assistance from law firms, GDPR consultants and some multinationals that made inputs through the NITDA Rule Making process.
“After exhausting the consultative process, the Agency issued the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) on 25th January, 2019.
“The NDPR, is designed to meet the global, especially GDPR principles on data protection, and also provides unique and innovative implementation frameworks that has made it a point of reference in Africa and beyond.
“Following the issuance of the Regulation, NITDA has taken a number of steps in line with its implementation strategy”.
While giving those insights, he also reeled out NITDA’s plans to continuously lay necessary structures to deepen data protection implementation in Nigeria come 2021 and beyond.
Development of sectorial implementation toolkits- The objective here is to get sector stakeholders to agree on a single, workable template for compliance in their sector.
Standardization of NDPR courses and trainings – We shall engage vigorous and experienced Nigerian based institutions that would help us standardize and accredit data protection and information security training and certification. We hope to develop a multi-billion naira sector that would create thousands of jobs for trainers, content providers and other professionals.
We are also going to rejig our enforcement mechanism to improve compliance. COVID-19 slowed down our enforcement vision in 2020, but we are going to redouble our efforts in this direction as data protection has become a pivot for the continued growth of the digital economy.
Speaking on the activities lined up for this Special Privacy Week, Mallam Inuwa Abdullahi, said that on Tuesday 26th January 2021, NITDA will host Privacy Tech Expo.
This first of its kind program, according to him, “is conceptualized to promote Nigerian innovations around privacy and data protection.
“NITDA as an information technology regulator has a duty to ensure all regulatory efforts are infused with requisite technological support.
“We will have pitch sessions and our selected panel of experts will provide guidance on how to improve on the solutions provided.
“Privacy and Public Health Management – Lessons from COVID-19 –This webinar is crafted to discuss the privacy issues arising from COVID-19 induced processes such as contact tracing, temperature capturing, vaccine trials etc.
“The webinar is expected to dissect the issues and proffer solutions for the consideration of government and other stakeholders.
He further noted that on Wednesday 27th January 2021, NITDA will hold webinar on “NIN: Preserving Privacy; Promoting the Digital Economy.”
The webinar, according to him is designed to discuss the issues around the issuance of the National Identity Number (NIN) and its implications on privacy and the digital economy.
“The panelists are expected to draw out lessons learned and what we as a nation can do better to achieve our objectives.
While on Thursday 28th January 2021, the agency will center its discussions around the Global Privacy Day.
“This will be the grand finale of the week’s activities, and the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami would be the Chief Host and Special Guest of Honour to give a keynote address on government’s vision on data protection and the digital economy.
“The National Quiz Competition final would also hold and the students will be assessed on data protection, digital economy, information technology and general knowledge. We are hoping to showcase Africa’s next data privacy champions,” he added.
Airtel Nigeria launches a new Smartphone Financing Programme to aggressively bridge the digital divide. The innovation provides existing Airtel customers with a flexible and convenient payment plan to own 4G smartphones and drive wider digital inclusion.
Through this innovation, Airtel will finance new smartphones via its exclusive retail network, helping customers currently using 2G and 3G devices upgrade seamlessly to 4G connectivity. The programme will kick off with the Itel A50 smartphone, a reliable, high-performing device designed to deliver a superior mobile experience for customers across Nigeria.
Speaking on the launch, Dinesh Balsingh, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, said the initiative reflects Airtel’s deep commitment to empowering Nigerians with all they need to thrive in a connected world.
He said, “Connectivity is opportunity, and smartphones are the key that unlocks it. Through the Airtel Smartphone Financing Programme, we are enabling more Nigerians to access 4G technologies, experience the full benefits of digital inclusion without financial strain, and transform the way they learn, work, and live. This initiative goes beyond providing devices; it is about empowerment, progress, and building a truly connected future.”
To be eligible, customers must be Airtel subscribers and are advised to check their financing status by dialling *492# USSD code. Once approved, the final onboarding is completed at any Airtel-owned shop. Upon making the initial down payment of ₦19,000 or ₦21,000, customers will receive their smartphone and immediately gain access to fast 4G internet.
All payments, including the down payment and subsequent weekly instalments, will be made exclusively through SmartCash, Airtel’s secure mobile money subsidiary.
Also speaking on the innovation, Ismail Adeshina, Director of Marketing, emphasised the role of partnerships and technology in driving the initiative.
“Our mission is to democratise access to technology by removing financial barriers. With this programme, customers can now afford quality smartphones without the burden of full upfront payment. By leveraging SmartCash and intelligent scoring systems, we are creating a sustainable model for inclusive digital growth,” Adeshina added.
To qualify, customers must be active on the Airtel network for at least three months, have a registered SmartCash account, a valid form of identification such as NIN, Voter’s Card, or Driver’s Licence, and provide consent for data processing by Intelligra for eligibility verification.
The Airtel Smartphone Financing Programme aligns with Airtel Nigeria’s broader goal of advancing financial inclusion, digital empowerment, and innovation across the country.
Six students have qualified for the grand finale of the MTN mPulse Spelling Bee following a keenly contested regional final held in Abuja.
The finalists — Samuel Babalola, Ojoma Gabriel Sylver, Favour Shuwa, Henry Elebiga Goodness, Levi Kelechi Ebisike, and Mary Chukwudi — will represent the North-Central, North-East, and North-West zones at the national competition scheduled to hold in Lagos.
The event, which drew participation from schools across the region, showcased the linguistic abilities of young Nigerians. The winners were selected based on their accurate spelling of complex vocabulary.
Temilolu Salako, Senior Manager, Segment Marketing (Youth, Women & Teen) at MTN Nigeria, said the company remains committed to empowering young people through education and technology.
“At MTN, we believe in the power of connectivity and technology to transform lives and build a brighter future,” Salako said.
One of the finalists, Mary Chukwudi, expressed excitement over her qualification, saying she had declared her intention to win before the competition began.
“I’m so happy. I’m proud of myself and can’t wait to go to Lagos for the grand finale,” she said.
The overall winner of the national competition will receive a ₦5 million educational grant, a laptop, a smartphone, and the opportunity to serve as MTN CEO for one day.
In addition, the champion’s school will benefit from a ₦10 million flagship project, including a modern ICT laboratory.
The MTN mPulse Spelling Bee is part of the company’s youth development initiative aimed at promoting academic excellence and leadership among Nigerian students.
The 14th edition of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) concluded in Lagos with a dazzling Globe Awards ceremony that celebrated African cinematic excellence and honoured the continent’s digital transformation.
Held at the Landmark Centre, the event drew top government officials, industry leaders, and Nollywood stars, underscoring the growing synergy between Nigeria’s creative economy and national development.
The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, represented Vice President Kashim Shettima at the ceremony.
In a symbolic moment, she received the newly instituted Herbert Wigwe Award for Excellence on behalf of the Vice President.
The award, named after the late business magnate and philanthropist, was also presented to Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, accepted by his deputy, Monday Onyeme. International actor and filmmaker David Oyelowo was among the celebrated honourees.
A tribute film commemorating Wigwe’s legacy was screened, drawing emotional responses from attendees and reinforcing the festival’s commitment to honouring visionary leadership.
MTN Nigeria’s Chief Digital Officer, A’isha Umar Mumuni, in her opening remarks, described the event as a beacon of Africa’s cultural and digital renaissance. “Tonight, as we stand together, we celebrate the beauty of a bold new digital world,” she said.
The red carpet featured Nollywood luminaries including Ini Edo, Rita Dominic, Omowunmi Dada, Osas Ighodaro, and Kunle Remi, whose fashion statements lit up social media. Comedian and actor Bovi hosted the evening, balancing glamour with heartfelt tributes and technical awards.
The ceremony concluded with a high-energy performance by music star Flavour, blending film and music in a celebration of Africa’s cultural vibrancy.
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