On March 3, 2026, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission announced a joint action with 60 other Data Protection Authorities to protect privacy in artificial intelligence use.
The action focuses on a Joint Statement on AI-Generated Imagery and the Protection of Privacy.
The statement was coordinated by the International Enforcement Cooperation Working Group of the Global Privacy Assembly.
It responds to growing concern over AI tools that create realistic images and videos of real people.
Regulators say some AI systems now produce fake images without consent. These tools can also spread defamatory and harmful content. Children and other vulnerable groups face higher risks.
The joint statement calls on organizations to put strong safeguards in place. It also asks them to ensure transparency in how AI systems work.
In addition, it requires clear and fast content removal processes. Regulators want full compliance with data protection laws in every country involved.
Nigeria Aligns AI Strategy With Global Privacy Standards
This action fits into Nigeria’s wider plan for responsible AI use. The country already launched a National AI Strategy. The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, leads that plan.
At the same time, the NDPC issued the General Application and Implementation Directive. The directive requires privacy by design and privacy by default in AI tools. This means developers must build privacy protections into systems from the start.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of NDPC, spoke about enforcement. He said the Nigeria Data Protection Act Compliance Audit Returns will help regulators track AI use.
According to him, “The NDPA Compliance Audit Returns will serve as a benchmark for monitoring and evaluating the responsible use of AI for data processing in Nigeria.”
Data controllers and processors must complete these audit returns. Regulators will then review them to ensure compliance.
Through this partnership, Nigeria hopes to join global efforts to control the risks associated with AI.
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