The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has organised a high-level seminar to strengthen compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA 2023), urging directors to embed a culture of accountability across all departments.
At the seminar held on February 19, 2026, the Ministry focused on the Annual Data Protection and Compliance Audit, a key requirement under the NDPA framework.
Belgore: Data Protection Is a Legal and Moral Duty
Permanent Secretary, Shuaib Belgore, challenged staff to treat data protection as both a statutory obligation and a moral responsibility.
He said the Ministry handles large volumes of sensitive data tied to housing applications, land documentation, staff records, contractor profiles and financial transactions.
“We must build and sustain public trust by safeguarding the information entrusted to us,” Belgore stated. “In today’s digital environment, data represents public confidence.”
He warned that a single breach could damage institutional credibility and compromise citizens’ privacy.
NDPA 2023 Sets Clear Standards
The Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 outlines strict guidelines for public and private institutions on collecting, processing, storing and sharing personal data.
The law strengthens Nigeria’s digital governance framework and demands annual compliance audits to promote transparency and institutional discipline.
For details on the NDPA 2023 framework, visit: NDPC’s Website
Digital Reforms Raise Compliance Stakes
Belgore highlighted ongoing digital transformation projects within the Ministry, including:
- Enterprise Content Management (ECM) System
- Renewed Hope Housing Portal
- Consolidated Land Registry Management System (CLRMS), soon to launch
He said these initiatives improve efficiency but also increase the need for strict data protection controls.
“Data protection is not the responsibility of the ICT Department alone,” he added. “Every officer and director who handles information must uphold these standards.”
ICT Department Calls for System-Wide Alignment
Earlier, the Head of ICT, Marcus Amionoleme, stressed that data protection safeguards the dignity and privacy of Nigerians.
He said the seminar aimed to deepen understanding of NDPA obligations and equip directors with practical compliance strategies.
Amionoleme also described the annual audit as a vital tool for strengthening transparency and reinforcing institutional integrity.
Why This Matters
As federal ministries expand digital services, data governance has become central to public sector credibility. Strong compliance systems protect citizens, reduce cyber risks and build trust in government institutions.
By prioritising NDPA compliance, the Housing Ministry signals its commitment to responsible digital transformation and accountable service delivery.
Afriglobalnews will continue to track reforms shaping Nigeria’s data protection and governance landscape.
