The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to fostering responsible gaming through robust data protection measures.
This commitment was underscored when he received a high-powered delegation from the Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission (ESGC), led by its Executive Secretary, Prince Arinze Arum, at the NDPC headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.
The visit was prompted by the Supreme Court’s order in November 2024, which reaffirmed the authority of Nigerian states to regulate lottery and gaming within their respective jurisdictions.
In light of this, the ESGC sought a strategic partnership with the NDPC to ensure the adequate protection of gamers’ personal data in Enugu State.
During the meeting, Prince Arum emphasised the critical role of data protection in promoting responsible and fair gaming.
He noted that personal data is at the heart of gaming operations, and ensuring its security is essential to maintaining public trust and confidence in the sector.
“Gaming thrives on trust, and that trust can only be sustained if operators handle gamers’ personal data with the highest level of responsibility. We recognise that data breaches and misuse can have far-reaching consequences, not just for individuals but also for the industry as a whole.
“This is why we are here—to collaborate with the NDPC in strengthening data privacy frameworks within our jurisdiction,” Arum stated.
He further stressed that the ESGC is committed to aligning with the NDPC’s regulatory framework to ensure compliance with Nigeria’s Data Protection Act. This, he said, would not only safeguard players but also enhance the integrity of gaming operations in Enugu State.
Responding to the ESGC delegation, Dr. Olatunji highlighted the growing significance of responsible gaming in Nigeria, where over 60 million citizens actively participate in various forms of gaming.
He pointed out that as the industry expands, so does the volume of personal data being collected, making data protection a non-negotiable aspect of gaming regulation.
“The gaming sector is highly data-driven. Operators collect vast amounts of personal information, including names, addresses, payment details, and even biometric data in some cases.
“This reality makes it imperative for gaming regulators and operators to ensure that players’ rights to data privacy are fully exercised,” Dr. Olatunji remarked.
He further outlined key compliance measures that gaming operators in Enugu State must adhere to, including registering with the NDPC, appointing a Data Protection Officer, implementing a privacy policy, and conducting regular data protection audits.
Dr. Olatunji also announced that the NDPC would provide free training on data protection and privacy for ESGC officials. This initiative, he explained, would equip the Commission with the necessary knowledge and skills to integrate data protection best practices into its regulatory functions.
“We want the Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission to take the lead in ensuring data privacy in the gaming sector, setting a precedent for operators to follow. This collaboration will not only protect gamers but also strengthen the entire gaming ecosystem in Enugu State and beyond,” he said.
The partnership between the NDPC and ESGC marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s gaming industry. It signals a shift towards a more structured and transparent regulatory approach where data protection is treated as a fundamental component of responsible gaming.
With the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming states’ authority to regulate gaming, other state commissions may soon follow ESGC’s lead in prioritising data privacy and security. The outcome of this collaboration could set a national standard for gaming data protection, influencing policies across the country.
For gaming operators in Enugu State, compliance with NDPC regulations will be mandatory. Failure to adhere to data protection laws could result in penalties, reputational damage, and potential legal action. Consequently, stakeholders in the industry must begin taking proactive steps to align with the emerging regulatory framework.
The meeting between NDPC and ESGC underscores the growing recognition of data protection as a key pillar of responsible gaming in Nigeria. With millions of Nigerians engaging in gaming activities, the protection of personal data is no longer optional—it is a necessity.
Through this strategic partnership, Enugu State is positioning itself as a leader in ensuring ethical and privacy-conscious gaming practices. As the collaboration unfolds, it will serve as a model for other states and industries, demonstrating that data protection and business growth can go hand in hand.
The NDPC and ESGC’s shared commitment to championing privacy rights is expected to enhance public trust in the gaming sector while promoting a safer and more transparent digital ecosystem for all stakeholders.
