Tuesday 31st October, 2023: In an initiative aimed at cultivating a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between human rights, technology, and legal frameworks, Paradigm Initiative (PIN) organised a specialised training for judges of the Federal High Court of Nigeria.
The training sessions, conducted by seasoned experts, covered a spectrum of critical topics, including Human Rights and Internet Governance, UN Cybernorms, the Nigeria Data Protection Act of 2023, the EU Digital Service Act, Cybercrimes Act 2015, and digital security for judicial officers.
The Chief Judge, Hon. Justice J. T. Tshoho in his opening remarks, took note of the evolving nature of human rights in the digital age. He mentioned the unprecedented challenges posed by technological advancements, stressing the urgent need for a judicial balance to preserve human rights, fundamental values, and the rule of law. The Chief Judge underscored the responsibility of the judiciary to ensure that justice is not only served but also aligned with the changing dynamics of the digital era.
“Human rights, fundamental values, and the rule of law must remain in the spotlight and, at the same time, have a realistic embodiment. Ultimately, this is the only way to achieve a just society and strengthen individuals’ confidence in technology. This is the responsibility of Your Lordships,” stated the Chief Judge.
Some key highlights were the debates around the vague nature of Section 24 of the Cybercrimes Act 2015, digital security and protection concerns as well as the application of the new Data Protection Act.
Paradigm Initiative remains committed to bridging the gap between technology and legal understanding, ensuring that public officers are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the digital age. PIN extends its gratitude to the esteemed judges for their active participation in this transformative program.
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About PIN
Paradigm Initiative (PIN) connects under-served young Africans with digital opportunities and ensures the protection of their rights. We have worked in communities across Nigeria since 2007 and across Africa since 2017, building experience, community trust, and an organisational culture that positions us as a leading non-governmental organisation in ICT for Development and Digital Rights on the continent.
Across our regional offices in Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and beyond, we have impacted youth with improved livelihoods through our digital inclusion and digital rights programs. The organization’s programs include Life Skills. ICT. Financial Readiness. Entrepreneurship (LIFE) Training Program, a digital readiness workshop for girls, and Life at School Club Program.
PIN has also built online platforms that educate and serve as safe spaces for reporting digital rights violations. These mediums, in the form of reports, short films, and educational online platforms, include Ayeta, Londa, and Ripoti.
The organisation is also the convener of the annual Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum, a platform where conversations on digital policy in Africa are shaped, policy directions debated, and partnerships forged for action.