Monday, January 19, 2026 | The National Assembly Library welcomed the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs and the National Assembly Press Corps for a high-level capacity-building workshop focused on the evolving landscape of Digital Rights in Nigeria.
Aiming to bridge the gap between legislative action and public understanding of digital governance, the workshop was a joint initiative spearheaded by Hon. Akin Rotimi Jr., House Spokesman and Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, in partnership with Paradigm Initiative, a leading pan-African organization advocating for digital inclusion and rights.
In his goodwill message, National Assembly Library Executive Secretary Rt. Hon. Henry Nwawuba emphasized that “the parliament can be utilized as an engine room for innovation.” He further underscored the Library’s commitment to ensuring that those who craft and report on Nigeria’s laws are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the digital age.
Key Areas of Focus
Led by Gbenga Sesan, Executive Director of Paradigm Initiative, the robust workshop curriculum provided participants with a deep dive into the intersection of technology, law, and human rights. The session focused on strengthening journalists’ understanding of how technology, data, and online spaces are regulated, and how this legislation directly affects people’s rights, privacy, and everyday life.
Key modules included:
- Foundational Concepts & Global Trends: An analysis of how digital rights are being shaped internationally and where Nigeria stands in the global ecosystem.
- The State of Digital Rights in Nigeria: A critical look at current challenges, including internet freedom, privacy, and digital expression.
- Legislative Storytelling: Specialized training for the Press Corps on framing complex legislative stories to serve the public interest and foster transparency.
Spotlight on Digital Legislation
A significant portion of the training was dedicated to reviewing existing and upcoming legal frameworks that define Nigeria’s digital trajectory. Participants engaged in detailed discussions on:
- Nigeria Data Protection Act: Understanding the safeguards for citizens’ personal information.
- Digital Rights and Freedoms Bill: The path toward enshrining digital liberties into law.
- National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill: The framework for a digitized public sector.
- Cybercrimes Act: Balancing national security with individual privacy.
- Child Online Access Protection Bill: Ensuring a safe digital environment for Nigeria’s youth.
View more photos from the engagement below:
