Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming part of everyday life in Nigeria. From chatbots and virtual assistants to online banking, healthcare and social media, AI-powered tools are changing how people work, learn and communicate. However, technology experts are warning that this growing dependence on AI also comes with serious privacy risks that many Nigerians still do not fully understand.
Speaking on the issue, data scientist Oluwaleke Oni stressed that the biggest challenge facing data protection in Nigeria is not only technology but the low level of public awareness about personal data rights. According to him, millions of Nigerians continue to share sensitive personal information online without understanding how it may be collected, processed or even misused.
Oni explained that many users willingly submit their names, phone numbers, addresses, identity details and financial information through websites, mobile applications and online registration forms. While these digital services provide convenience, they also create opportunities for cybercriminals and irresponsible organisations to exploit personal information when proper safeguards are absent.
He noted that artificial intelligence systems rely heavily on large amounts of data to function effectively. As businesses increasingly adopt AI-powered services, protecting personal information has become more important than ever. Without proper awareness, users may unknowingly grant permissions that allow their information to be stored, analysed or shared with third parties.
The expert called on government agencies, technology companies, educational institutions and the media to intensify public education campaigns on digital privacy. He believes that stronger awareness will help Nigerians understand both their rights and their responsibilities when using online platforms.
He also advised internet users to become more cautious before sharing personal information online, especially on platforms that request excessive details without clearly explaining how the data will be used.
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Why AI Makes Data Privacy More Important
The increasing use of AI has created fresh concerns around how personal information is gathered, stored and processed. Modern AI systems often analyse enormous volumes of user data to improve their accuracy and deliver personalised experiences.
Experts say this makes data protection far more complex than it was a few years ago. Information shared through emails, social media posts, online shopping platforms, healthcare services and financial applications may all contribute to digital profiles that AI systems use for analysis.
Privacy advocates warn that if such information falls into the wrong hands, individuals could become victims of identity theft, financial fraud, phishing attacks or reputational damage. They also caution that users frequently accept lengthy privacy policies without reading them, making it difficult to understand exactly how their data is being handled.
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission has consistently emphasised that AI developers and organisations deploying AI technologies must respect existing privacy laws. The commission has also joined international regulators in urging companies to build AI systems that prioritise transparency, accountability and strong safeguards for personal information.
Experts recommend simple habits that can significantly reduce exposure to online risks. These include limiting the amount of personal information shared publicly, using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication where available, reviewing app permissions regularly and verifying the credibility of websites before submitting sensitive information.
Growing Calls for Better Digital Awareness in Nigeria
Although Nigeria has made progress through the Nigeria Data Protection Act, specialists believe legislation alone cannot guarantee privacy if citizens remain unaware of their rights.
According to Oni, public enlightenment should become a continuous effort involving schools, businesses, government institutions and media organisations. He argued that every Nigerian who uses a smartphone or internet-connected device should understand basic data protection principles.
The call comes at a time when Nigeria is witnessing rapid digital transformation across banking, education, healthcare and public services. Artificial intelligence is expected to accelerate innovation in these sectors, but experts insist that trust will depend on how responsibly personal information is managed.
Industry stakeholders have also urged organisations to be transparent about the information they collect, why they collect it and how long it will be retained. Building public confidence, they argue, will require organisations to demonstrate that privacy is treated as a fundamental responsibility rather than an afterthought.
Technology professionals believe that creating a stronger culture of digital awareness today will help Nigerians enjoy the benefits of AI while reducing the risks associated with the country’s expanding digital economy.
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Back Story
Nigeria has strengthened its legal framework for data protection through the Nigeria Data Protection Act, which establishes rules governing the collection, processing and storage of personal information. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, regulators have acknowledged that new technologies are introducing privacy challenges that existing laws may need to address more specifically.
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission has already indicated plans to review aspects of the law to better reflect emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics and big data. At the same time, both Nigerian and international privacy regulators continue to encourage responsible AI development that protects individuals’ rights while supporting innovation.
