5 Key Responsibilities of a Data Protection Officer

A lot of people hear “Data Protection Officer” and assume it’s just another title in the legal or compliance department. But in reality, the role of a DPO (or DPCO as it’s commonly referred to here in Nigeria) is far more strategic and impactful.

If you’re considering becoming one—or hiring one for your organization—here’s a breakdown of the core responsibilities every effective DPCO must handle:

1. Ensuring Compliance with Data Protection Laws
This is the foundation of the role. A DPCO must be familiar with relevant data protection laws like the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA), GDPR (for companies handling data of EU citizens), and any sector-specific regulations. Their job is to interpret these laws and ensure the organization is operating within them—at all times.

2. Developing and Implementing Data Protection Policies
Policies are not just paperwork—they’re the backbone of a company’s data handling practices. A DPCO leads the development of these policies, ensuring they’re practical, easy to follow, and reflect current regulatory requirements. They also monitor implementation and revise policies as needed.

3. Conducting Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs)
Any time a company wants to launch a new product, onboard a third-party vendor, or change how it handles personal data, a DPIA should be conducted. The DPCO leads these assessments to identify potential privacy risks and recommend measures to mitigate them.

4. Training Staff and Raising Awareness
A DPCO is also an educator. They organize training sessions and awareness programs to ensure every employee understands their role in protecting data. It’s not enough for only the IT or legal teams to “get it”—data protection is everyone’s job.

5. Acting as the Point of Contact for Data Subjects and Regulators
Whether it’s a customer asking how their data is being used, or the Nigeria Data Protection Commission requesting a compliance report, the DPCO is the go-to person. They manage data subject requests, respond to audits, and ensure the organization maintains transparency and accountability.

The role of a Data Protection Compliance Officer isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about building trust, reducing risk, and driving business resilience. As more organizations begin to understand the importance of data governance, the demand for skilled DPCOs will only continue to rise.

Thinking about becoming one yourself?
Our Data Protection Compliance Course is the perfect starting point. Whether you’re looking to switch careers, upskill, or make yourself more valuable in your current role, this course will give you everything you need to thrive in the data-driven economy.

Get trained. Get certified. Get ahead. Enrol today.