The Data and Knowledge Information Privacy Protection Initiative, a non-governmental organisation, on Tuesday expressed concern over the rising number of data breaches in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

The president of DKIPPI, Tokunbo Smith, expressed his concern in Lagos following the group’s executive meeting.

Mr Smith called for urgent measures to strengthen compliance with data protection regulations.

He said recent data released by the Nigerian Data Protection Commission showed that hundreds of universities had been flagged for data protection breaches and given ultimatums to address the lapses.

According to him, the development highlights the need for stronger institutional awareness and adherence to data protection principles.

“It shows clearly that there is still a gap in compliance and awareness within our institutions,” he said.

Mr Smith said the group would collaborate with relevant stakeholders to promote a better understanding of data protection responsibilities among institutions.

He added that efforts were underway to develop programmes to support the NDPC in improving compliance across sectors.

A consultant with the NGO, Raphael Akombe, said many Nigerians, including professionals and students, still lacked adequate understanding of data privacy.

Mr Akombe said this had contributed to widespread misuse of digital platforms and exposure of personal data.

He noted that many users accepted the terms and conditions of applications without understanding the implications for their personal information.

According to him, strengthening awareness and knowledge remains critical to addressing data breaches in the country.

Mr Akombe added that the initiative was working on strategies to support nationwide awareness in collaboration with the NDPC. 

(NAN)