By Angela Atabo
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has begun training on data protection for engineers to equip them with knowledge in data privacy, regulatory compliance, and information guidance.
NSE organized the training in collaboration with the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and the Nigerian Institute of ICT Engineers (NIICTE).
President and Chairman-in-Council of NSE, Mrs Margaret Oguntala, stated this at the opening of the Data Protection Induction Training for Engineering Professionals in Abuja.
Mrs Oguntala said the training is a unique and strategic addition to NSE’s professional development initiatives and it forms part of NSE’s deliberate efforts to bridge knowledge and skills gaps, ensuring engineers are equipped with the necessary tool on data protection guides to meet contemporary professional demands.
She further stated that in line with the vision to train at least 10,000 members across categories, they remained intentional about offering platforms that provide both technical and regulatory knowledge, which is vital in areas that are rapidly evolving and critical to the profession’s future.
Oguntala noted that following NSE’s ISO 9001:2015 certification, the society had taken bold steps to demonstrate commitment to quality management and international best practices.
She stressed that building members’ capacity in data protection, regulatory compliance and information governance had, therefore, become imperative.
Oguntala said: “This is no longer optional but a professional necessity. With the enactment and growing enforcement of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, it is essential that members align with national requirements and global standards in data privacy. As engineers, we build systems and infrastructure and are custodians of public trust. That trust depends on protecting the privacy, security and integrity of data.”
- See also: Envoy: Turkey seeks Partnership with NiDCOM on diaspora engagement
- hamas-says-it-agrees-to-latest-ceasefire-proposal-netanyahu-sounds-dismissive
She went further by saying that data protection was no longer exclusive to ICT or legal professionals, but a responsibility for every engineer working with technology, networks or information systems.
Oguntala thanked partners who supported the initiative and urged participants to engage actively, deepen their understanding, and maximise the opportunity.
Among the speakers, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, NDPC Chief Executive Officer, represented by Dr Tolulope Pius-Fadipe, NDPC’s Head of Research and Development said the commission was pleased to share insights on the importance of compliance in engineering practice and engineers were at the forefront of innovation, creating solutions that transform the world.
“However, with this power comes responsibility. Your work involves data ranging from client information to intellectual property. It is crucial to prioritize data protection to maintain trust, integrity and compliance. Data protection is now a fundamental aspect of professional engineering practice. As engineers, you must ensure your designs, products and services are both innovative and compliant with regulations.”
Olatunji added that the training would equip engineers with principles, risk management tools and best practices to integrate data protection into projects.
He encouraged participants to engage fully, ask questions, and share experiences.
“By working together, we can ensure Nigerian engineers remain leaders in data protection compliance, upholding innovation, integrity, and trust in the industry.”
