Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Understanding Data Protection Compliance in Nigeria
Data Protection Compliance Organisations
1. What is a Data Protection Compliance Organisation (DPCO)?
A Data Protection Compliance Organisation (DPCO) is an entity licensed by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (“NDPC” or “Commission”). Its primary role is to help organisations achieve and maintain compliance with Nigeria’s data protection laws.
Always ask to see a DPCO’s certificate to ensure you are working with an experienced and licensed firm.
DPCOs, such as T.A.A.S Cyber Solutions Ltd, provide data protection compliance services that include auditing, advisory, Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs), training, and other services required to drive compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act) 2023, General Application and Implementation Directive (GAID), and other relevant regulations or guidelines issued by the Commission.
2. Why does my organisation need a DPCO?
Every company that collects or processes personal data (also known as data controllers and data processors) must comply with the provisions of the NDP Act, which includes appointing a DPCO. Partnering with a DPCO like T.A.A.S Cyber Solutions Ltd ensures you meet all legal and regulatory obligations to comply with the Act and GAID, avoid penalties, and build trust with clients.
Maintaining this compliance, however, is a continuous and specialised task. Partnering with a licensed DPCO, such as T.A.A.S Cyber Solutions Ltd, is the most effective way to navigate these complex requirements.
As your expert partner, we:
- Ensure Legal Compliance: by guiding you through the nuanced complexities of the NDP Act and GAID, helping you meet requirements under law.
- Avoid Costly Penalties: through our audits and Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs), which identify vulnerabilities before they become breaches, thereby significantly reducing your risk of facing fines and sanctions from the NDPC.
- Build Client and Partner Trust: by demonstrating your commitment to data privacy is intentional, rather than optional. Our advisory, gap assessments, remediation, audits, red teaming, training and capacity building, help you prove to clients and stakeholders that you take the protection of their data seriously, enhancing your brand reputation.
- Provide On-Demand Expertise: through a dedicated data protection team, you gain access to certified experts for audits, training, and advisory services precisely when you need them. This may be favourable to companies that prefer outsourcing to a full-time hire.
3. How is a DPCO different from a Data Protection Officer (DPO)?
A Data Protection Officer (DPO) is a mandated role by the NDP Act, responsible for ensuring the organisation’s compliance with applicable data protection legislation. A Data Protection Compliance Organisation (DPCO) like T.A.A.S Cyber Solutions Ltd serves as your licensed external expert, providing the necessary oversight and formal validation of your data privacy policies and procedures. We partner with you to audit your processes, train your DPO and staff, and officially certify your compliance status with the NDPC.