The Lagos State Government has introduced a comprehensive set of cybersecurity guidelines aimed at strengthening digital safety for businesses, public institutions, and residents across the state.
The development was announced by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, who said the initiative is part of broader efforts to position Lagos as a secure and globally competitive digital hub amid rising cyber threats.
According to the government, Nigeria loses an estimated $500 million (about ₦250 billion) annually to cybercrime, underscoring the urgency for stronger digital protection measures.
The newly unveiled framework, developed with input from the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Council chaired by Fene Osakwe, provides practical and scalable guidance for organisations to safeguard their systems and data.
Officials noted that as Lagos evolves into a smart city, the risk of cyber threats continues to grow, making proactive security measures essential.
The guidelines—available publicly—outline best practices for small businesses, large enterprises, and government agencies. They emphasise key steps such as adopting data minimisation principles, implementing encrypted storage systems, and developing clear incident response plans.
Organisations are also advised to report cybersecurity breaches within 72 hours to relevant authorities, including ngCERT and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, while notifying affected users where necessary.
The framework aligns with existing national regulations, including the Cybercrime Act (2024), the Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023), and the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy (2021).
Importantly, the government clarified that the guidelines are not mandatory regulations but practical tools designed to help organisations strengthen their cybersecurity posture.
The framework also highlights the need for businesses to assess risks associated with third-party vendors, cloud services, and external partners, as part of a broader risk management strategy.
In addition, organisations are encouraged to conduct regular self-assessments, invest in staff training, and adopt continuous monitoring systems to track progress and improve resilience over time.
The state government stressed that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, noting that stronger digital systems will enhance economic stability, attract investment, and build public trust.
It also acknowledged the role of the Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Tubosun Alake, in driving the initiative.
