NUJ FCT Partners NDPC on Journalists’ Data Protection Training

NUJ FCT Partners NDPC on Journalists’ Data Protection Training

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has entered into a partnership with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to strengthen journalists’ capacity in data protection and digital security.

The collaboration was formalised during a courtesy visit by the NUJ FCT leadership, led by Chairman Comrade Grace Ike, to the NDPC headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.

Speaking during the visit, Ike said the initiative was aimed at equipping journalists with the knowledge and tools required to navigate Nigeria’s evolving digital landscape responsibly and securely.

“In today’s world, data is power. Data shapes narratives. Data drives governance. Data influences elections. Data can build trust and it can also destroy reputations,” she said.

She noted that journalists routinely collect, process, interpret and publish data, often handling sensitive information in the course of their duties.

According to her, rising cyber threats, sophisticated digital surveillance, and the rapid spread of misinformation make it imperative for media practitioners to understand Nigeria’s data protection laws and global best practices.

She said the union was seeking the Commission’s support for structured training programmes that would enable journalists to handle personal data lawfully, prevent digital breaches, and safeguard their devices, sources, and newsroom systems from cyber attacks.

“A journalist who does not understand data protection in this era is vulnerable, and a vulnerable journalist weakens democracy,” Ike stated, adding that the media must not only report on compliance but embody it.

In his response, the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, commended the FCT Council for the initiative, describing the media as a critical stakeholder in promoting awareness of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023.

Olatunji said the Commission had recently engaged journalists in Lagos and Abuja during National Privacy Week activities, stressing that awareness creation remains central to the NDPC’s mandate.

“Media is the Fourth Estate, and awareness is never too much,” he said.

He pledged to organise a one-day induction training for members of the NUJ FCT Council and offered free Virtual Privacy Academy vouchers as well as slots in the Commission’s certification programme.

The NDPC boss disclosed that since 2019, the Commission has generated ₦16.2 billion in revenue, with ₦7.2 billion remitted to the Federal Government. He added that the Commission has hosted delegations from eight countries and led large-scale Global Privacy Week trainings in Lagos.

Both parties agreed to hold follow-up meetings to develop a broader collaboration framework, including strategies to extend awareness campaigns to rural communities.

The partnership is expected to enhance digital resilience among journalists and strengthen responsible data handling practices within Nigeria’s media industry.