Privacy Policy
Last Updated: 29 October 2025
The Columnist (“we”, “us”, “our”) is committed to protecting your privacy under the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) 2019, EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), and global best practices.
1. Who We Are
The Columnist is a Nigerian digital news platform delivering real-time coverage in Politics, Business, Finance, Technology, Sports, Entertainment, Health, World News, Opinion, Lifestyle, Trending, Breaking, and more.
2. Data We Collect
| Data Type | Examples | How Collected |
|---|---|---|
| Device & Usage | IP address, browser type, device model, pages viewed, time spent | Cookies, server logs, Google Analytics |
| Account Data | Name, email (if you subscribe or comment) | Registration forms, comment system |
| Location | Approximate city/region | IP geolocation |
| Advertising | Ad clicks, viewed ads | Google Ad Manager, third-party ad partners |
3. How We Use Your Data
- Deliver and improve website functionality
- Personalize content and ads
- Measure audience insights (anonymized)
- Prevent fraud and ensure security
- Send newsletters (only if you opt-in)
4. Cookies & Tracking
We use:
- Essential cookies: Site navigation, security
- Analytics cookies: Google Analytics (anonymized IP)
- Advertising cookies: Google AdSense, Facebook Pixel
You can accept, reject, or customize via our Cookie Consent Banner on first visit.
5. Data Sharing
We do not sell your personal data. We share only with:
- Service providers: Hosting (e.g., SiteGround), analytics, ad networks
- Legal authorities: When required by Nigerian or international law
6. Your Rights (NDPR / GDPR / CCPA)
- Access your data
- Correct inaccuracies
- Delete your data (where applicable)
- Opt-out of newsletters or ads
- Withdraw consent anytime
Email: support@thecolumnist.ng
7. Data Retention
- Logs: 12 months
- Comments: Indefinitely (unless deleted)
- Newsletter subscribers: Until unsubscribe
8. Security
We use SSL encryption, firewalls, and regular audits. No system is 100% secure, but we act swiftly on breaches.
9. Children
Our site is not for under 16s. We do not knowingly collect children’s data.
10. International Transfers
Data may be processed in Nigeria, EU, or US. We ensure adequate safeguards (e.g., Standard Contractual Clauses).
11. Contact Us
Data Protection Officer Email: support@thecolumnist.ng Address: Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
We reply within 48 hours.
12. Changes
We may update this policy. Significant changes will be notified via banner or email.
By using The Columnist, you accept this Privacy Policy.