Former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has called for a paradigm shift in how data is used across public and private sectors, emphasizing that data should serve as a tool for empowerment rather than control. He made this statement during his keynote address at the 57th International Conference and Exhibition of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) held in Lagos.
Addressing a packed audience of HR professionals, policymakers, and tech leaders, Osinbajo highlighted the transformative power of data in shaping inclusive governance, driving innovation, and enhancing citizen engagement. “Data must be used to empower people, to give them access, to improve transparency and accountability. It should never be used as a weapon of control or exclusion,” he said.
He stressed that in an increasingly digital world, the ethical use of data is not just a technical issue but a moral imperative. “We must resist the temptation to use data to manipulate or marginalize. Instead, we should harness it to uplift communities, inform policy, and foster trust between governments and citizens,” Osinbajo added.
The conference, themed “People, Data, and the Future of Work”, explored the intersection of technology, human capital, and governance. Osinbajo’s remarks resonated with attendees, many of whom are grappling with the challenges of data privacy, AI integration, and digital transformation in their organizations.
He also commended the CIPM for its role in shaping Nigeria’s workforce and urged institutions to prioritize data literacy and ethical frameworks in their operations. “We need to build a culture where data is not feared but understood, not hoarded but shared responsibly,” he said.
Osinbajo’s speech comes at a time when debates around surveillance, misinformation, and algorithmic bias are gaining momentum globally. His call for responsible data stewardship adds a critical voice to the conversation, especially in Africa where digital infrastructure is expanding rapidly.