The Nigeria Data Protection Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the digital rights of persons with disabilities following a courtesy visit by the Cedar Seed Foundation, a non-governmental organisation advocating for disability rights and inclusion.
The delegation, led by the Founder of the Foundation, Lois Auta, was received on behalf of the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Vincent Olatunji, by his Technical Assistant on Legal, Saratu Samande.
During the meeting, Auta stated that the visit was aimed at understanding the provisions of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act), 2023, particularly as they relate to persons with disabilities.
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She highlighted some of the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and emphasized that the Cedar Seed Foundation remains committed to promoting inclusivity and equal participation in society.
“Cedar Seed Foundation seeks to create a world where persons with disabilities participate in society as they choose and enjoy equal human rights,” she stated.
Responding, Saratu Samande acknowledged the concerns raised and affirmed that information relating to disabilities is classified as sensitive personal data under the law because it is health-related.
She noted that mishandling such information could expose persons with disabilities to discrimination and emphasized that the Commission has several initiatives that stakeholders can leverage to maximize the protections provided under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023.
Speaking from personal experience, Lois Auta commended Vincent Olatunji for his continuous support for persons with disabilities and praised the Nigeria Data Protection Commission for promoting inclusivity within the digital ecosystem.
In her closing remarks, Saratu Samande assured the delegation of the Commission’s readiness to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the digital rights of persons with disabilities are adequately protected across Nigeria.
