The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has entered into a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) as part of strategic move to shield journalists against escalating digital dangers.

The pact was sealed during a courtesy visit by the NUJ Federal Capital Territory (FCT) led by its Chairman, Grace Ike to the leadership of NDPC in Abuja.

Ike said that the visit was to seek the commission’s support in training journalists on data protection to strengthen ethical reporting and safeguard public trust.

“In today’s world, data is power. Data shapes narratives. Data drives governance. Data influences elections. Data can build trust and it can also destroy reputations.

“As journalists, we sit at the intersection of information and public trust. Every day, we collect data, process data, interpret data, publish data, and sometimes even protect sensitive data,” Ike said.

At the center, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, and FCT -NUJ Chairman, Ms Grace Ike, with other members of the union delegation at the NDPC office after the signing of partnership in Abuja.

She noted that the digital ecosystem was evolving rapidly, with cyber threats increasing, digital surveillance becoming more sophisticated, and misinformation spreading faster than verification.

“This is why our visit today is strategic. We are here to seek partnership, specifically in the area of capacity building and training for journalists within the FCT and beyond.

“We believe journalists must be fully conversant with Nigeria’s data protection laws and policies, equipped to handle personal and sensitive data responsibly and trained to prevent digital breaches and cyber infiltration.

“To also be empowered to protect their devices, sources, and newsroom systems from digital attacks,” she added.

Ike emphasised that a journalist who does not understand data protection in the present dispensation was vulnerable, and a vulnerable journalist weakens democracy.

“The media must not only report on data protection compliance; we must embody it,” she said.

According to Ike, the engagement will bring journalists up to speed with Nigeria’s data policy framework, provide practical guidance on lawful data handling.

She added that it would also expose journalists to digital security best practices and strengthen resilience against cyber threats targeting media institutions

Ike commended the NDPC for its strides in data governance and privacy protection.

She reiterated that well-equipped journalists would better understand how to report responsibly without breaching privacy rights.

In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NDPC, Mr Vincent Olatunji, commended the FCT Council for the initiative, noting that the commission’s mandate thrives on awareness creation.

He highlighted recent strategic engagements with journalists in Lagos and Abuja during National Privacy Week.

Olatunji said that beyond promoting compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, the NUJ could also help showcase career opportunities within the data protection ecosystem.

He pledged that the commission would organise a one-day induction training for the FCT Council.

He also offered free Virtual Privacy Academy (VPA) vouchers and slots in the certification programme as part of a broader strategic collaboration.

“Media is the fourth estate, and awareness is never too much,” he said, referencing ongoing legislative efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s data protection framework.

“We are ready to leave a legacy,” Olatunji pledged, adding that follow-up meetings would be held to develop a blueprint for rural penetration and expanded awareness.

The pact is expected to empower reporters, ensure stronger data governance, and a safer digital Nigeria, where responsible journalism could thrive without fear of cyber threats. (NAN)