ECOWAS Workshop on Revising the Supplementary Act on the Protection of Personal data and Enhancing Data Harmonisation

On July 15, 2024, the ECOWAS Commission commenced a workshop in Abuja, Nigeria, focused on revising the Supplementary Act on Personal data protection and building capacity for data harmonisation and cross border data flows. The workshop, hosted by the ECOWAS Commission, saw participation from representatives of Member States ministries responsible for ICT and the digital economy, Data Protection Authorities, the African Union, the European Union, DPSE and GIZ.

In her address Ms. Céline Lhoste, representing the European Union Delegation to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasised that safeguarding personal data protection is not only a regulatory necessity but a fundamental right in our digital world. She congratulated ECOWAS for pioneering activities aligned with the African Union Data Policy Framework. She introduced the new programme, Safe Digital Boost for Africa (SDBA) aimed at supporting e-commerce and e-governance initiatives to enhance regional integration and stimulate economic growth by supporting. She concluded by reiterating the EU’s commitment to being a dedicated partner to ECOWAS and its Member States.

On behalf of the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitalisation, Mr. Sédiko DOUKA, Ms. Folake Olagunju, Acting Director, Digital Economy & Post welcomed all participants. She highlighted the need for the regional approach to data privacy to evolve alongside ongoing digital transformation. She outlined the workshop’s threefold focus: consolidating proposals to revise the Supplementary Act, addressing current and emerging data protection challenges, focusing on data harmonisation and cross border flows to enhance Member State’s capacity and exchanging stakeholder experiences and best practises. She reaffirmed the ECOWAS Commission’s dedication to developing and implementing policies that protect personal data, foster trust in digital services, and promote digital innovation.

During his remarks, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner for the Nigerian Data Protection Commission, highlighted the progress of data protection laws across Africa, influenced by the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection ‘Malabo Convention’. He emphasised the need for continuous review of the Supplementary Act, considering emerging technologies. Additionally, he recommended appointing a Chief Data Protection Officer within ECOWAS to enhance knowledge sharing and awareness.

Over the four days, the workshop will cover various topics, aiming to produce actionable recommendations for updating the current Supplementary Act and facilitating the free flow of data across Africa. The workshop is expected to significantly impact data protection in West Africa and beyond, contributing to the overall digital transformation of the region.