17 Anambra Officers Undergo Data Protection Certification Training
By Angela Nwanodu
The Anambra State Government has taken a major step toward strengthening data governance and privacy compliance with the successful completion of a 4-day Certified Data Protection Officers (DPO) training programme held at the State ICT Agency from May 5 to 8, 2026.
The training, which brought together 17 officers from the Anambra State ICT Agency and the State Executive Council Secretariat, was conducted in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act) 2023 and forms part of national efforts to deepen compliance across both public and private sector institutions.
Facilitated by Business Intelligence Technologies Ltd, an accredited training organisation of the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC), and led by Dr. Ivan Anya, the programme is designed to equip participants with the competence required for responsible data governance and regulatory compliance.
Speaking during the training, Dr. Anya explained that the Federal Government, through the NDPC, initiated the second edition of the Certified Data Protection Officer training, to address the growing need for skilled professionals in data protection across Nigeria.
He noted that Anambra’s participation underscores its positioning as one of the early adopters of structured data protection implementation at subnational level, with benefits including stronger digital governance, improved protection of citizens’ data rights, and expanded employment opportunities within the digital economy.
According to him, the participation of officers from the State ICT Agency and the State Executive Council Secretariat is both strategic and critical, as it will significantly strengthen efforts toward the commencement and effective implementation of the Data Protection Act in the State.
Dr. Anya further stressed that organisations are now required under the law to designate or employ certified Data Protection Officers who are competent to ensure compliance. He explained that such officers play a critical role in preventing regulatory breaches, penalties, and reputational risks, while also strengthening public trust in both government and private sector operations.
Highlighting the broader implications of the initiative, Dr. Anya observed that Nigeria currently faces a significant manpower gap in data protection, describing it as an opportunity for youth employment and professional development in the emerging digital economy.
He also emphasized the need for structured implementation frameworks, including strategic roadmaps with defined pillars such as knowledge development and awareness, to ensure measurable outcomes in data protection governance.
Mrs. Cynthia Morah, Head, ANSEC Department, described the programme as highly impactful, noting that it reinforced the importance of accountability and compliance in safeguarding citizens’ data privacy rights in line with the Nigeria Data Protection Act.
Another participant, Mr. Castro Ideke, from the State Agency highlighted the practical and professional impact of the training, describing it as a highly engaging and eye-opening experience that deepened understanding of the Act and the rights of data subjects.
He added, “Knowledge gained from this training will directly influence future software design and development, ensuring that privacy considerations are embedded from the outset. This approach promotes responsible innovation while upholding the fundamental privacy rights of data subjects in Anambra State.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Anya recommended the appointment of Data Protection and Compliance Organisations (DPCOs) as consultants by the State Government, to support full implementation of data protection programmes, while urging the adoption of structured strategic roadmaps to guide execution and evaluation.
The 17 officers are expected to sit for the Certified Data Protection Officer examination scheduled for May 30, 2026, as part of efforts to formally qualify them as certified practitioners in data protection and compliance.
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