Data protection vital to national security, says NDPC CEO
via Punch Nigeria15 min read
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission NDPC, emphasized the critical role of data protection in national security and fostering public trust. He highlighted that a digital economy cannot thrive without trust, and organizations must demonstrate through their actions that they can be trusted with personal data. Olatunji noted that national security increasingly has a cyber dimension, making privacy, cybersecurity, and trust essential components. He also discussed the NDPC's approach to investigations, focusing on thorough evaluations and compliance rather than immediate punitive fines. The CEO mentioned ongoing efforts to protect citizens' data ahead of the 2027 elections, including working with the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC and engaging political parties and traditional institutions. He also addressed the Central Bank's data localization policy, explaining its potential to stimulate investment, create jobs, and reduce capital flight. Olatunji expressed his vision for privacy to become an integral part of daily life in Nigeria, fostering a culture of trust and confidence in the digital environment.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Nephrologists indicate that people born with one kidney can lead healthy lives but face increased risks of kidney complications if they are obese or maintain unhealthy lifestyles. Factors such as excess body weight, poor diet, physical inactivity, herbal remedies, and painkiller abuse can strain the single kidney, potentially accelerating damage and increasing the risk of chronic kidney disease. Renal agenesis, where an individual is born with one kidney, affects an estimated one in 2,000 babies globally each year. Consultant paediatric nephrologist Dr. Debo Ademola noted that while many born with one kidney live normally, some may develop health issues later, especially if the remaining kidney has abnormalities or if prolonged hyperfiltration due to compensation leads to damage. He emphasized that obesity and poor lifestyle habits are particularly risky. Professor of Medicine Nephrology Jacob Awobusuyi added that individuals with one kidney are more prone to hypertension and kidney failure compared to those with two kidneys, and women with the condition should prioritize early antenatal care during pregnancy. Experts recommend regular medical check-ups, avoiding kidney-damaging substances like excessive non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and unverified herbal preparations, maintaining a healthy diet and weight, adequate hydration, and being cautious with contact sports to preserve kidney function.
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu's recent comments encouraging women to engage in small businesses like selling akara, roasting corn, or frying kuli-kuli have sparked widespread discussion in Nigeria. Her remarks, made after a meeting of state first ladies, were intended to offer practical encouragement during hard times, suggesting that starting such businesses does not require significant capital. This follows a similar public reaction to her husband, President Bola Tinubu, who in 2021 suggested recruiting 50 million youths into the army and feeding them with cassava and corn, a statement that was later clarified to five million. Critics argue that the First Lady's suggestions, much like her husband's 'agbado' moment, highlight a perceived disconnect between the elite and the economic realities faced by many Nigerians. Journalist Blessing Mosugu emphasized that the core issue is not the dignity of such labor but the scale of opportunity available to educated young Nigerians, questioning if these businesses can address significant financial needs like school fees or provide meaningful employment for graduates. Meanwhile, the Presidency is also dealing with the case of Adeniyi Adeyemi Mathew, who allegedly operated a fictitious body called the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council from the Federal Secretariat for over a year. Adeyemi is facing an eight-count charge for conspiracy, forgery, and impersonation, with his next court appearance scheduled for July 27.
United Kingdom-based cultural storyteller, creative curator, and co-founder of Odyssey Media House, GbolaJesu Amusa, stated that her passion for storytelling was inspired by her father. She explained that her father intentionally used storytelling to connect her to her roots, instilling a sense of identity, belonging, and cultural pride. Amusa noted that these early experiences highlighted storytelling's power as a tool for preserving heritage, shaping identity, and building community. After moving to the UK for her master's degree, Amusa observed that Africa was often perceived as a single country rather than a diverse continent. This realization, coupled with the lack of authentic African stories, motivated her to launch the YouTube series "African Entrepreneurs in Diaspora" and co-found Odyssey Media House. Her work aims to preserve and promote African culture, ensuring younger Africans in the diaspora see stories that reflect their experiences and celebrate their heritage. Amusa has supported projects like the Bradford African Festival of Arts, where she served as Media Lead, overseeing storytelling and audience engagement. She also contributed to The Alternate Experience and the Pedal Power Youth Programme. Amusa highlighted the challenge of young Africans in the diaspora becoming disconnected from their cultural heritage due to adapting to new environments. She is currently working on "City in Frames," an initiative using photography workshops to empower communities to