ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

By Gloria Ikibah

In a decisive step to confront the growing wave of cyber risks facing media professionals, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory Council, has forged a strategic alliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

The agreement was formalised during a high-level visit on Wednesday, when the NUJ delegation, led by its Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, met with the Commission’s leadership in Abuja.

The visit centred on deepening collaboration between both bodies, with the union seeking the Commission’s backing to equip journalists with practical knowledge in data protection. The initiative is designed to enhance ethical standards in reporting while reinforcing public confidence in the media.

The partnership is expected to pave the way for structured training programmes aimed at helping journalists navigate the increasingly complex digital landscape and guard against data breaches and other cyber threats.

“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.

“As journalists, we sit at the intersection of information and public trust. Every day, we collect data, process data, interpret data, publish data, and sometimes even protect sensitive data,” she stated.

Ike noted that the digital ecosystem is evolving rapidly, with cyber threats increasing, digital surveillance becoming more sophisticated, and misinformation spreading faster than verification.

“This is why our visit today is strategic. We are here to seek partnership—specifically in the area of capacity building and training for journalists within the FCT and beyond. We believe journalists must be fully conversant with Nigeria’s data protection laws and policies, equipped to handle personal and sensitive data responsibly, trained to prevent digital breaches and cyber infiltration, and empowered to protect their devices, sources, and newsroom systems from digital attacks.”

The NUJ-FCT Chairman , emphasised that a journalist who does not understand data protection in this era ais vulnerable, and a vulnerable journalist weakens democracy.

“The media must not only report on data protection compliance; we must embody it.”

She noted that the engagement would help media practitioners gain a clearer understanding of Nigeria’s data protection framework and the responsibilities it imposes. It is expected to offer practical direction on handling personal information lawfully, introduce journalists to proven digital security measures and build stronger defences against cyber attacks increasingly aimed at media organisations.

Comrade Ike praised the Commission, led by Dr Vincent Olatunji, for advancing standards in data governance and privacy protection across the country. She maintained that journalists who are properly trained and informed are better positioned to report accurately and ethically, without infringing on individuals’ privacy rights.

In response, the National Commissioner and Chief Executive of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Dr Olatunji, welcomed the FCT Council’s initiative, observing that public awareness remains central to the Commission’s mandate. He pointed to recent engagements with journalists in Lagos and Abuja during National Privacy Week, explaining that while compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 remains a priority, the media also has a role to play in highlighting emerging career paths within the expanding data protection sector.

On behalf of the Commission, he committed to arranging a one-day induction programme for members of the FCT Council. The offer also includes complimentary access to the Virtual Privacy Academy and available places in its certification scheme, forming part of a broader effort to deepen collaboration between both institutions.

“Media is the Fourth Estate, and awareness is never too much,” he said, referencing ongoing legislative efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s data protection framework.

Since 2019, the NDPC has generated ₦16.2 billion in revenue—₦7.2 billion remitted to the Federal Government—hosted delegations from eight nations, and led large-scale Global Privacy Week trainings in Lagos.

“We’re ready to leave a legacy,” Olatunji pledged, adding that follow-up meetings would be held to develop a blueprint for rural penetration and expanded awareness.

This pact promises empowered reporters, stronger data governance, and a safer digital Nigeria, where responsible journalism can thrive without fear of cyber threats.