The Edo State Government, in collaboration with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), has renewed its commitment to full compliance with data protection standards as part of its ongoing digital governance reforms under the Edo Cloud initiative.
The State Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa, gave the assurance during a recent meeting in Benin City with representatives of the NDPC and key stakeholders in Edo State’s digital governance ecosystem.
Among those present were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy, Mrs. Jennifer Aisuan; the Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Information Communication and Technology Agency, Engr. Ukpebor Jonathan; and the Managing Director of the Edo State Digital Governance and Data Management Agency (EdoDIDA), Dr. Ewere R. Sam-Uroupa.
Okungbowa described data as the “new oil,” warning that poor regulation and management could expose citizens and institutions to significant risks, including privacy breaches and security threats.
He noted that as the state advances its transition to digital governance through the Edo Cloud initiative, the need for strict compliance with data protection regulations and global best practices has become increasingly important.
The HoS added that the Edo State Government is prepared to work closely with relevant agencies, including EdoDIDA and the NDPC, to ensure full compliance with established data protection standards and strengthen public trust in its digital systems.
Speaking at the meeting, an NDPC representative, Princewill Odinaka, emphasized the need for the appointment of registered data controllers and data protection officers across state services to enhance data security and institutional accountability.
He also highlighted the commission’s achievements, including the training of more than 54,000 officers in data protection and cybersecurity nationwide, urging states and institutions to continually update their policies in line with emerging technologies and evolving digital realities.
