Polit Journal
Vol 5 No 2 (2025): Polit Journal: Scientific Journal of Politics, May

Implications of Data Protection Law on Media and Communication in Nigeria

Muhammad Danjuma Abubakar (Languages Department, Niger State, Polytechnic, Zungeru)
Hauwa Kawo Mohammed (Hussaini Adamu Federal Polytechnic, Kazaure, Jigawa State)
Ekpali Joseph Saint (Department of Mass Communication, National Open University of Nigeria)
Muhammad Ridwan (Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
22 Mar 2025

Abstract

The enactment of data protection laws has significantly reshaped the landscape of media and communication in Nigeria. As the country increasingly integrates digital technology into journalism, broadcasting, and online communication, the legal framework surrounding data privacy has become a crucial factor in defining how information is collected, stored, and disseminated. The Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) and other regulatory instruments seek to balance the rights of individuals to privacy with the freedom of expression and access to information, both of which are essential for a thriving democratic society. This paper attempts to explore the possible effect of the new data protection law in Nigeria, on media and communications, specifically PR, advertising and journalism practices respectively. The paper employs qualitative methodology and relies on the interviews; using snowballing and purposive techniques. The study utilizes interpretative phenomenological analysis using in-depth interview. The outcome of the study shows that Mass Communications and its varied specializations (Advertising, PR and Journalism) rely heavily on reliable data since it deals with audiences of distinct characteristics and so messages tailored to these audiences’ needs are backed by the knowledge of their personal data. The study concludes that as a fundamental human right that data protection is, relevant laws that guarantee it are welcome but amendments of such laws have to be continuous and addition to its global harmonization to fill up numerous gaps to ensure fullest protection.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

polit

Publisher

Subject

Description

Polit Journal is Scientific Journal of Politics is an international journal using a peer-reviewed process published in February, May, August and November by Britain International for Academic Research Publisher (BIAR-Publisher). Polit welcomes research papers in politics, parliamentary, political ...