By Usman Ishaq Shehu
PhD Candidate | Editor in Chief, J.O.Comms | Public Affairs Analyst and Strategic Communicator
The launch of the Youth Data Protection Awareness and Training programme (YDPAT) under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration marks a transformative shift in how Nigeria is preparing its youth for the demands of the digital economy. With a target to train over one million young Nigerians in data protection and privacy, this initiative goes beyond awareness. It is a direct investment in national capacity, economic relevance, and individual empowerment.
YDPAT comes at a time when data has become the most valuable currency in the global economy. From banking and healthcare to education and social media, the management and protection of personal information now sit at the heart of modern life. Yet, Nigeria has fewer than 5,000 certified data protection officers to serve over 500,000 data controllers and processors across the country. That imbalance poses a risk but also presents a massive opportunity.
The YDPAT initiative is designed to close this skills gap. Through a structured mix of classroom and virtual training, and with certification offered via a youth friendly digital platform, the programme empowers young Nigerians with the tools they need to enter a growing job market. It is not just about learning theory. It is about opening pathways to employment in public and private sectors alike, where compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act is becoming essential.
The economic benefits are clear. A digitally aware and data literate workforce will strengthen investor confidence, improve institutional accountability, and reduce the risks of data breaches across industries. More importantly, it places Nigeria on the map as a serious player in global data governance, aligning our internal practices with international standards.
YDPAT is not just a training programme. It is a nation building tool. It signals the Tinubu administration’s commitment to inclusive digital growth and youth empowerment. The policy deserves wider awareness and support, especially from private sector players who will ultimately benefit from a pool of trained professionals ready to secure their systems and safeguard citizen information.
In a world where digital trust is everything, Nigeria cannot afford to lag behind. YDPAT is a smart, timely, and strategic step in the right direction.