The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has kicked off a three-day strategic capacity building workshop and inaugural ceremony for its newly constituted Data Protection and Incident Response Team (DPIRT).
The capacity building training, which was recently held at its headquarters in Abuja, aimed to underscore ICPC’s commitment to strengthening internal data governance, ensuring compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, and aligning with global best practices.
Speaking at the Opening Ceremony on behalf of the ICPC Chairman, the Secretary to the Commission, Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Oparaodu, DSSRS, described the training as a landmark initiative, being the first of its kind in the Commission’s history.
Mr. Oparaodu noted that the Data Protection Act, signed into law in 2023, is a major milestone in safeguarding the privacy rights of Nigerian citizens and offers institutions like ICPC the opportunity to lead in data responsibility and transparency.
The Chairman’s representative commended the Data Protection Officers for their leadership and encouraged the Data Champions to engage actively in the training.
According to him, the Commission was actively collaborating with the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to enhance anti-corruption efforts through responsible data use.
He formally declared the workshop open and applauded the efforts of the facilitators and the organising team as he wrapped up, wishing the participants a productive session.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Data Protection and Information Security Management System (ISMS) Steering Committee,
Mrs. Grace Agha-Ibe, FSIi, commended the initiative as a vital step toward institutional compliance with the Act.
Agha-Ibe highlighted the Steering Committee’s role established in 2024 in driving data protection standards within the Commission.
The Head Information & Communication Technology Unit of the Commission, Mr Bashir Adamu Dagaro, while expressing commendations for the landmark event, emphasised the essential role of Data Champions in promoting a culture of security, collaboration, and compliance across departments.
Mr. Dagaro further called for continued learning and teamwork in building a secure digital environment.
The Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (NDPA) is a comprehensive law designed to safeguard the fundamental rights and freedoms of data subjects, particularly regarding their personal information.
The Act aims to promote best practices in data processing, ensure data security and privacy, and provide remedies for data breaches.
