The NDPC Calls on Sports Betting Operators in Nigeria to Prioritize Data Protection

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) urges sports betting operators to prioritize data governance as a key component of their corporate strategies.

As Nigeria’s digital economy grows and the gaming and sports betting industry transforms into a major data hub, with over 60 million Nigerians using these platforms monthly, it is evident that, given the sector’s handling of large volumes of sensitive personal and behavioral data, operators must take on significant responsibility by ensuring compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023.

The NDPC classifies information collected during account registration and payment processes, such as names, phone numbers, identification details, financial records, and betting activity, as sensitive data requiring heightened protection. Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of the NDPC, emphasizes that since gaming operations are inherently data-intensive, prioritizing privacy is a regulatory necessity.

To align with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023 and avoid the repercussions of non-compliance, operators should focus on four key objectives. These include appointing Data Protection Officers (DPOs), qualified personnel responsible for managing data strategies and ensuring legal adherence. Conducting regular compliance audits is also crucial, periodic reviews of data practices help identify vulnerabilities and maintain secure storage systems.

Additionally, operators should register as Major Data Controllers with the NDPC, where relevant, acknowledging their role as primary processors of Nigerian citizens’ data. Establishing transparent consent processes is vital, ensuring customers fully understand how their information is collected and used, which requires clear, accessible mechanisms for obtaining and managing consent.

The NDPC emphasizes that adhering to these standards fosters increased customer trust and confidence. By aligning with international privacy standards, Nigerian betting platforms can position themselves as responsible digital service providers in the global marketplace.

For operators affiliated with the Association of Nigerian Bookmakers (ANB), the path forward is clear, integrating data protection into the very foundation of your business model to protect your customers’ data and secure your company’s future.