NCC reaffirms commitment to data privacy, consumer protection

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumers’ personal data and strengthening privacy safeguards in the telecommunications sector as Nigeria commemorates the 2026 National Privacy Week.

In a statement marking the annual event, the Commission joined the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and other stakeholders in celebrating National Privacy Week, which aligns with the global observance of Data Privacy Day held every January 28.

The 2026 edition is themed “Privacy in the Era of Emerging Technologies: Trust, Ethics and Innovation,” with a focus on empowering data subjects, strengthening corporate accountability and driving economic growth through responsible data governance.

The NCC said data protection and privacy remain critical to building trust, encouraging innovation and sustaining the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.

According to the Commission, the rapid expansion of digital technologies has made the protection of consumers’ personal information more important than ever.

As the regulator of Nigeria’s telecommunications industry, the NCC said it remains committed to safeguarding consumer rights, promoting responsible data governance and ensuring that licensed telecom operators comply with all applicable data protection regulations.

The Commission noted that the telecommunications sector has become the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy, supporting activities across finance, healthcare, education, commerce, agriculture and other sectors.

It added that the rollout of 5G networks, the growing adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the increasing deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) have further heightened the need for stronger privacy protections.

According to the NCC, the emergence of these technologies places greater responsibility on regulators to ensure that consumers’ interests are adequately protected in the country’s evolving digital ecosystem.

The Commission said it would continue to strengthen collaboration with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission to ensure telecommunications licensees understand and comply with their obligations under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, while also increasing public awareness of consumer privacy rights.

It stressed that sensitive information, including subscribers’ call records, location data and digital identities, must be collected, processed and stored in strict compliance with the country’s data protection laws.

The NCC encouraged subscribers with concerns about the handling of their personal data by telecommunications service providers to lodge complaints through the Commission’s Consumer Portal or by calling its toll-free 622 consumer helpline.

The Commission commended the Nigeria Data Protection Commission for organising the National Privacy Week and reiterated its support for initiatives that promote responsible innovation, strengthen digital trust and protect the privacy rights of Nigerians as the country advances its digital transformation agenda.