The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled the Data Protection Virtual Academy to strengthen digital security and privacy awareness across sectors.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), is designed to offer virtual training on data protection and cyber hygiene.
It targets civil servants, private sector workers, and job seekers nationwide.
Unveiling the academy during the 8th Network of Data Protection Authorities Conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijjani, described the launch as a strategic first.
“It is therefore my honour to formally launch the Data Protection Virtual Academy,” Tijjani announced. “This is a bold and innovative step toward building a digitally secure and globally competitive workforce for Nigeria.”
The academy aims to provide accessible, practical training on data protection principles and digital hygiene practices. It supports Nigeria’s broader vision of embedding privacy consciousness into national digital transformation efforts.
Tijjani explained that the platform would serve every Nigerian, regardless of employment status. It will equip users with skills to reduce the risk of data breaches and protect personal and institutional data in an evolving digital landscape.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Deputy Chief of Staff Ibrahim Hadejia, also endorsed the academy as a timely intervention. He said the academy aligns with the federal government’s digital economy priorities and commitment to rights-based data governance.
The virtual training platform is expected to enhance public understanding of data protection practices. It will contribute to shaping a digitally resilient society, in which both individuals and institutions uphold privacy standards.
By empowering Nigerians with foundational data protection knowledge, the academy also prepares them to meet global cybersecurity and compliance demands.
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