State Targets Businesses, MDAs With New Digital Safety Framework.
“A Cybersecure Lagos Is Essential” – Govt Aligns With National Laws.
The Lagos State Government has unveiled comprehensive Cybersecurity Guidelines to protect businesses, public institutions, and residents from rising digital threats, as Nigeria loses over 500 million Dollars about 250 billion Naira, to cybercrime yearly.
The framework, released by the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, sets out practical, scalable best practices for small businesses, large enterprises, and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. It aligns with the Cybercrime Act 2024, Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, and National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy 2021.
Available at https://lagosstate.gov.ng/cybersecguide, the guidelines are not regulatory mandates but voluntary tools to help stakeholders secure digital assets. They form part of Lagos’ drive to become a SMART, secure, and globally competitive tech hub.
“Lagos is Africa’s fastest growing technology ecosystem, but that progress brings heightened vulnerability to cyber threats,” the document states.
The National Information Technology Development Agency estimates annual national losses to cybercrime at over $500 million.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, said the guidelines reaffirm the state’s commitment to a secure digital environment that promotes innovation, investment, and public trust.
“A cybersecure Lagos is essential for sustaining its position as one of the most dynamic and globally competitive tech hubs of the 21st century,” the framework notes, he said.
The government commended the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Council, chaired by Professor Fene Osakwe, for its technical leadership in developing the document.
It also praised Innovation, Science and Technology, Commissioner Tubosun Alake, for driving the initiative.
The guidelines will be refined periodically to address emerging threats and evolving technologies, with the state emphasizing public-private collaboration to ensure all organisations from sole proprietorships to multinationals can operate confidently.
