The Lagos State Government has unveiled a comprehensive set of cybersecurity guidelines designed to enhance digital safety for businesses, public institutions, and residents, as part of efforts to build trust in the state’s rapidly expanding digital economy.
The framework, detailed in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso and obtained by The PUNCH, highlights practical measures aimed at reducing cyber risks and strengthening resilience across both public and private sector operations.
According to the statement, the guidelines mark “another decisive step in Lagos’ mission to become a SMART, secure, and globally competitive digital hub,” especially as the state continues to grow its technology ecosystem.
Citing data from the National Information Technology Development Agency, the government noted that Nigeria loses over $500m (approximately N250bn) annually to cybercrime, highlighting the urgency for coordinated safeguards.
The statement read, “As Africa’s fastest growing technology ecosystem—home to thousands of enterprises—Lagos faces increasing exposure to cyber risks,” adding that the state’s rapid digital transformation has also “brought heightened vulnerability to cyber threats.”
The newly introduced guidelines, accessible via the state government’s official portal, provide “clear, practical, and scalable cybersecurity best practices” tailored for small businesses, large enterprises and Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
They are aligned with key national frameworks, including the Cybercrime Act (2024), the Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023) and the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy (2021).
The government stressed that the provisions are advisory rather than mandatory, stating that “these recommendations are not regulatory mandates but tools designed to empower stakeholders with practical, context-specific guidance.”
Reaffirming its broader commitment, the statement noted that Lagos remains focused on “fostering a secure digital environment that promotes innovation, investment, and public trust,” while positioning itself as a leading technology hub on the continent.
It also commended the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Council, chaired by Fene Osakwe, for its role in developing the framework, alongside the Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Tubosun Alake, whose support was described as instrumental.
The statement added that the initiative underscored the state’s commitment to “safeguarding digital assets, enhancing public-private collaboration, and ensuring that every organisation… can operate confidently in a secure digital environment.”
It further noted that the guidelines would be periodically reviewed to address emerging threats and evolving technologies, reinforcing cybersecurity as “a foundational pillar” of Lagos’ digital transformation agenda.
