The National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Dr Vincent Olatunji, has called on corporate leaders to reposition themselves as stewards of technology, data, and trust in an increasingly digital world.
Speaking at the CIoD Members’ Evening 2026 hosted by the Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria in Lagos, Dr Olatunji delivered a keynote address themed “Beyond Oversight: Directors as Stewards of Technology, Data, and Trust in the Imagination Era.”
In his remarks, he highlighted the defining realities of the “Imagination Era,” noting that while innovation and digital transformation are accelerating growth, they also come with hidden risks that organisations must proactively manage. He described digital trust as a “new competitive currency,” stressing that organisations that prioritise trust will gain a significant advantage.
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Dr Olatunji emphasised the growing importance of data protection and privacy, urging directors to ensure strict compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023. According to him, compliance not only safeguards organisations from regulatory sanctions but also strengthens stakeholder confidence and long-term business sustainability.
He further charged directors to move beyond traditional oversight functions and embrace a stewardship role, where they actively shape organisational culture, drive responsible innovation, and ensure ethical data governance.
During a fireside chat moderated by the Managing Director/CEO of Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities, Mrs Uche Uzoebo, the NDPC boss spoke on the duty of care expected of organisational leaders. He underscored the importance of continuous awareness and capacity building, noting that building internal competencies is critical to achieving effective data protection compliance.
Responding to questions from CIoD members, Dr Olatunji reiterated the need for organisations to embed compliance into their corporate culture, rather than treating it as a regulatory obligation.
In recognition of his contributions to advancing data protection and digital trust, Dr Olatunji received an honorary award from the Institute.
The event also featured the unveiling of the 37th edition of the Directors’ Magazine. Dr Olatunji joined the President and Chairman of the Governing Board of CIoD, Otunba Adetunji Oyebanji, alongside other distinguished members, for the ceremony.
