NIGCOMSAT emphasises digital trust and data protection on Global Privacy Day

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd (NIGCOMSAT), Jane Egerton-Idehen, has underscored the central role of trust, privacy and data protection in Nigeria’s digital transformation, describing them as foundational to a secure and resilient digital ecosystem.

Speaking in the context of Global Privacy Day, which was hosted by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Egerton-Idehen noted that while NIGCOMSAT plays a critical role in moving data across networks, such operations are only sustainable where there is strong trust from clients and stakeholders.

She highlighted that data privacy and protection go beyond regulatory compliance, stressing that they are essential to national security, digital resilience and public confidence as Nigeria continues to expand digital access. She also referenced remarks by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, who emphasized the need to protect citizens as more Nigerians come online.

Egerton-Idehen commended Nigeria’s progress in data protection governance, noting that the structured regulatory framework under the NDPC has contributed to the creation of over 23,000 jobs and delivered measurable economic impact. She further pointed to the emphasis on training, certification and public-private collaboration as key drivers in building the skills required for a secure digital environment.

She also noted efforts to promote inclusive awareness through the use of local languages, including Igbo, Yoruba and Hausa, and engagement with traditional leaders, which she said are helping to broaden understanding of data privacy across communities nationwide.

According to Egerton-Idehen, these initiatives have positioned Nigeria as the leading country in Africa for data protection and privacy practices, setting a benchmark on the continent. She reaffirmed NIGCOMSAT’s commitment to aligning policy with execution, stating that trust, privacy and security remain non-negotiable pillars of the company’s operations as Nigeria’s digital future continues to evolve.