DEVATOP Hosts AI4Rights Africa Webinar on AI and Data Protection in Nigeria
DEVATOP Centre for Africa Development has strengthened conversations around digital rights and privacy through a training webinar focused on the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence on personal data and data protection in Nigeria. The webinar, organized under the AI4Rights Africa project, was held virtually via Zoom and themed “Your Data, Your Rights: Understanding AI and Data Protection in Nigeria.” The session brought participants together to explore the opportunities and risks associated with the growing use of AI, particularly as emerging technologies continue to influence how personal information is collected, processed, shared, and used.
The webinar featured two facilitator-led sessions. The first session was led by Oyindamola B. Olatunji, Esq., a lawyer with interests and expertise in corporate and commercial law, data protection, technology law, and energy law. The second session was facilitated by Israel Olukayode, who further explored key issues around Artificial Intelligence, data protection, and digital rights. Together, the sessions provided participants with practical insights into the opportunities and risks associated with the growing use of AI. The discussions also drew attention to emerging AI-driven threats, including deepfakes and voice cloning, which are increasingly raising concerns around privacy, identity, consent, and the misuse of personal information. As AI tools become more accessible, the ability to create or manipulate realistic images, videos, audio, and other digital content has also increased, making awareness of these risks increasingly important.
Beyond the presentations, the webinar created space for participants to engage directly with the issues raised through an interactive question-and-answer session and open discussion. Participants had the opportunity to ask questions, seek clarification from the facilitators, and share their perspectives on the practical implications of AI and data protection in their everyday digital lives. The programme concluded with closing remarks, a group photo, and a feedback session. Participants were also informed about upcoming activities under the AI4Rights Africa campaign and encouraged to provide feedback on the webinar.
The webinar highlighted the importance of strengthening public understanding of digital rights as Artificial Intelligence continues to evolve. Beyond understanding what AI can do, participants were encouraged to recognise the importance of protecting personal information and being more conscious of the ways technology can affect individual privacy and rights. The webinar represents another step towards equipping individuals with the knowledge needed to navigate an increasingly AI-driven digital environment.
