The Federal Government has officially flagged off the Youth Data Protection Awareness and Training (YDPAT) programme at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, marking a bold step toward preparing young Nigerians for digital safety and job readiness in a data-driven world.
With the theme “Securing Nigeria’s Digital Future: Youth at the Frontline of Data Protection,” the event underscored the government’s commitment to privacy rights, youth empowerment, and digital resilience.
In his keynote address, Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, described the initiative as a visionary effort to equip Nigerian youth with critical knowledge and tools to navigate digital risks.
“The internet offers immense opportunities, but also dangers—from identity theft to personal data misuse. YDPAT is our answer to these challenges,” Olawande said.
He revealed that less than 5,000 certified Data Protection Officers (DPOs) currently exist in Nigeria, despite over 500,000 data controllers mandated by law to appoint them. YDPAT, he said, would help fill this gap while opening up job creation opportunities for young professionals.
The programme’s key objectives include:
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Training youth to become certified DPOs.
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Raising awareness of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023.
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Building a digitally literate, security-conscious generation.
“We want to build a privacy-first generation — one that’s empowered, secure, and globally competitive,” the Minister added.
The Minister also acknowledged the pivotal role of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), civil society, youth leaders, and development partners in shaping the programme.
Hadiza Bala Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, reaffirmed the Presidency’s support, stating that the YDPAT collaboration is proof of what institutional synergy can achieve.
“Youth don’t just need enthusiasm — they need skills that are adaptable, market-ready, and future-proof,” she said.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, highlighted the Commission’s commitment to local capacity development, revealing that the Institute of Information Management has been licensed to issue globally recognized DPO certifications—reducing reliance on foreign trainers.
Chairman of the House Committee on ICT, Hon. Stanley Adedeji Olajide, described the programme as timely, saying:
“Data is the new oil, and this initiative puts our youth at the center of our national digital transformation.”
In his welcome address, Permanent Secretary Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya emphasized the Ministry’s resolve to train at least 5,000 youth by December 2025, under a collaborative MoU with the NDPC.
“YDPAT is not just another programme — it’s the launch of a national movement to position youth as custodians of digital ethics and resilience,” he said.
A major highlight of the launch was the unveiling of the YDPAT Online Platform, a user-friendly hub for training, certification pathways, learning materials, and continuous engagement.
Closing the event, Comrade Olawande called on young Nigerians to take full ownership of the programme:
“You are not just participants — you are co-creators of Nigeria’s digital future. Let’s make YDPAT a model for Africa and the world.”
ADEOLA KUNLE
