In a step toward enhancing cross-border data privacy enforcement, Nigeria and Somalia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen collaboration in data protection and information governance.
The agreement was formalized following the successful conclusion of the 2025 NADPA-RAPDP Conference and Annual General Meeting, hosted in Abuja by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC). The event drew participation from several African Data Protection Authorities (DPAs), including delegations from The Gambia and Somalia, who remained in Nigeria to observe the NDPC’s operational model and strategic advancements.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of the NDPC, signed the MoU on behalf of Nigeria, while Mohamed Nur Ali, Director-General of Somalia’s Data Protection Authority, represented Somalia at the signing ceremony, held at the NDPC headquarters.
The agreement outlines key areas of cooperation, including mutual legal assistance, joint enforcement efforts, and the sharing of information and best practices. It is expected to serve as a framework for stronger institutional collaboration, with the goal of improving regulatory effectiveness and protecting the personal data of citizens across both countries.
“This partnership marks a new chapter in data protection across Africa,” said Dr. Olatunji. “By working together, we strengthen our collective capacity to safeguard privacy rights in an increasingly interconnected digital world.”
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Meanwhile, Mrs. Neneh MacDouall-Gaye, Chairperson of The Gambia’s Information Commission, expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by the NDPC and commended the Commission’s leadership for organizing a successful conference. She also noted that The Gambia is working toward establishing an independent data protection authority and hopes to enter a similar agreement with Nigeria in the near future.
The NDPC’s growing reputation as a regional leader in data protection continues to attract interest from across the continent, positioning Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s digital regulatory landscape.
