By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called on government agencies, ministries, financial institutions and the media to strengthen collaboration and promote responsible use of personal data collected through national identification and registration systems.
The Commission said information gathered through the Bank Verification Number (BVN), Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) registration and other government programmes could improve public services and citizens’ welfare if properly coordinated and utilised.
The NCC’s Senior Manager, Regulatory Services, Mrs Yetunde Adeyemo, made the call recently in Lagos, stressing the need for accountability in managing and sharing information across different institutions.
According to Adeyemo, Nigeria has accumulated substantial amounts of personal information through banking, telecommunications and various government initiatives. However, inadequate coordination among databases has limited the country’s ability to maximise the benefits of the information.
She explained that collecting data alone would not deliver meaningful results without effective systems that enable relevant institutions to access, coordinate and apply the information responsibly.
Adeyemo urged stakeholders to take greater responsibility for ensuring that existing data translates into practical improvements in public service delivery and national development.
“Stakeholders must take responsibility for ensuring that existing information produces practical benefits,” she said.
She further emphasised the importance of accountability, urging institutions to take ownership of their responsibilities and use available information to achieve measurable outcomes.
“Let’s start with being accountable, holding ourselves responsible, and using what we have to get the results we need,” Adeyemo added.
The NCC’s call highlights the importance of stronger institutional collaboration, responsible data management and effective coordination of Nigeria’s digital information systems.
As the country expands its digital infrastructure, ensuring that citizens’ personal information is handled responsibly while improving the delivery of essential services remains an important priority.
