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Institute of Information Management (IIM)

IIM CDPO® Certification

IIM Certified Data Protection Officer Certification – IIM CDPO® 

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You have the knowledge, now it's time to make it official with the Certified Data Protection Officer (CDPO) Certification from the Institute of Information Management (IIM).

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Stand out as a recognized expert in data protection and privacy. Join a distinguished network of certified professionals, unlocking new career opportunities and enhancing your professional credibility.

Certification Logo - CDPO

I. Introduction

A. IIM CDPO Certification

The Institute of Information Management (IIM) is a leading International professional body focused on information governance, data management, and privacy. IIM is the National Certification Body for Data Protection in Nigeria, Licensed by Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC). The Certified Data Protection Officer (CDPO) certification is designed to equip professionals with the expertise to implement and oversee data protection strategies in compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act) 2023 and international best practices.

B. Purpose & Benefits of Certification

The CDPO certification validates a professional's ability to:

  • Ensure compliance with data protection laws/regulations.
  • Implement data governance frameworks.
  • Conduct Data Privacy Impact Assessments (DPIAs).
  • Manage data breaches and risk mitigation strategies.
  • Support organizations in achieving compliance with the NDP Act and global standards.

C. Accreditation & Recognition

The IIM CDPO certification aligns with international data protection standards, including NDPA, GDPR, Malabo Convention, Convention 108+ and ISO/IEC 27701. This certification is recognized by regulatory bodies, legal professionals, and industry experts as a mark of excellence in data protection.

II. CDPO Certification Program

The IIM CDPO certification aligns with international data protection standards, including NDPA, GDPR, Malabo Convention, Convention 108+ and ISO/IEC 27701. This certification is recognized by regulatory bodies, legal professionals, and industry experts as a mark of excellence in data protection.

A. Eligibility & Prerequisites

Candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

  • A minimum of two years of experience in data protection, compliance, or information security.
  • Completion of an IIM-accredited Data Protection Officer training.
  • Possession of relevant IIM-recognized professional certifications 

B. Certification Process Overview

  • Registration: Apply for the CDPO certification through the IIM portal.
  • Training (Important): Attend IIM-approved training sessions.
  • Exam Registration: Schedule and take the certification exam.
  • Certification Award: Upon passing, receive the CDPO certificate and digital badge.

 C. Exam Structure & Format

  • 150 questions comprising scenario-based, single-choice, multiple-choice, fill-in-the-gap, and true or false questions.
  • 150-minute examination duration.
  • Passing score (70%): 105.

III. Exam Preparation

A. Body of Knowledge (BoK)

The exam is based on the following core domains:

  • Legal and Regulatory Frameworks (30%)
  • Data Protection Principles and Compliance (25%)
  • Risk Management and DPIA (20%)
  • Incident Response and Data Breaches (15%)
  • Governance, Policies, and Ethics (10%)

B. Recommended Study Resources

  • NDPC Training Manual for Data Protection Officers (DPOs)
  • Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act) 2023
  • IIM Data Protection Training Materials
  • Malabo Convention, Convention 108+, Case Studies & Industry Reports

C. Training Programs and Study Materials

Both self-paced online courses and instructor-led workshops to help candidates prepare for the exam through Certified Training Providers.

IV. IIM CDPO Registration Process

A. Impartiality

IIM upholds impartiality in all certification processes and ensures that all applicants, candidates, and Certified Professionals are treated fairly. We continuously monitor our procedures to maintain impartiality and prevent conflicts of interest.

B. Accuracy

All information published on the IIM website or other promotional materials is carefully reviewed to ensure accuracy and currency.

C. Application Process Overview

The steps for registering for the IIM CDPO Certification are:

  • Register for the CDPO exam via the IIM website.
  • Schedule the exam via the confirmation email link provided upon successful registration.
  • Take the exam at the scheduled date, time, and location.

D. Application and Fees

A completed application includes:

  • Exam registration.
  • A completed application statement and confidentiality agreements.
  • Payment of certification fees.

E. Scheduling an Exam

Candidates can schedule their exam via the IIM online portal. After scheduling, candidates will receive an exam reservation confirmation email containing:

  • Exam date and time.
  • Location details.
  • Security procedures.
  • A personal exam activation code (required to take the exam).

F. Fees

  • Exam Fee. ₦200,000 (Members), ₦250,000 (Non-Members).
  • Retake Fee.₦100,000 (Members), ₦150,000 (Non-Members).
  • CPDs Maintenance Fee (Annually): ₦100,000 (Members), ₦150,000 (Non-Members).

Changes to certification fees will be communicated at least three (3) months in advance.

G. Examination Sites

IIM CDPO certification exams are available via remote proctoring worldwide. 

H. Program Changes

If modifications are made to the certification framework requiring additional assessments, IIM will notify all affected certified professionals and update the website accordingly.

V. Taking the Exam 

A. Exam Format and Rules
  • Proctored environment with identity verification.
B. Proctored Testing (Online)

Candidates will be tested via a secure remote proctoring exam platform.

C. Examination-Day Guidelines
  • Arrive 30 minutes early at your exam workstation.
  • Ensure a quiet, well-lit environment for online exams.
  • Valid ID required for verification.

VI. Contact Information 

For further inquiries, contact Institute of Information Management (IIM) via:

  • Website: www.iim-africa.org.
  • Email: examinations@iim-africa.org.
  • Phone: +234 808 377 3640

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