Nigeria advances data privacy and localisation standards

Nigeria is seeing a growing focus on data governance and digital sovereignty, driven by both technological innovation and new regulatory requirements. In Lagos, the data privacy platform Asiri, founded by entrepreneur Abraham Esandayinze Tanta, is working to move data protection beyond mere paperwork. The platform aims to provide verifiable systems for companies to safeguard personal information, addressing risks such as identity theft and financial scams under the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA).

Simultaneously, the financial sector is preparing for new Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) data localisation requirements set to take effect on January 1, 2027. Experts suggest these requirements should be viewed as a strategic foundation for trusted artificial intelligence. As banks and fintechs increasingly integrate AI for fraud detection and risk assessment, the control of data and infrastructure becomes critical for ensuring accountability and resilience within the nation's digital economy.