By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria
The Lagos State Government has unveiled a comprehensive set of cybersecurity guidelines aimed at strengthening digital safety for businesses, public institutions, and residents across the state.
The framework, released as part of efforts to position Lagos as a secure and globally competitive digital hub, comes amid growing concerns over cyber threats, with Nigeria estimated to lose over $500 million (approximately ₦250 billion) annually to cybercrime.
According to the government, the guidelines provide practical, scalable, and context-specific recommendations for organisations ranging from small businesses to large enterprises and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
“This development represents another decisive step in Lagos’ mission to become a SMART, secure, and globally competitive digital hub,” the statement said.
The document, available on the state’s official website, outlines best practices designed to mitigate cyber risks while supporting innovation and investment within the digital ecosystem.
It also aligns with key national frameworks, including the Cybercrime Act (2024), the Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023), and the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy (2021), ensuring coherence with existing regulatory standards.
While emphasising the importance of cybersecurity, the state government clarified that the guidelines are not mandatory regulations but tools to empower stakeholders.
“The recommendations are not regulatory mandates but tools designed to empower stakeholders with practical, context-specific guidance,” the statement noted.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to building a secure digital environment that fosters public trust and economic growth, particularly as Lagos continues to expand as one of Africa’s leading technology ecosystems.
It commended the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Council, chaired by Professor Fene Osakwe, for its role in developing the framework, alongside the Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Tubosun Alake.
“The release of these guidelines underscores Lagos State’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding digital assets and ensuring organisations can operate confidently in a secure environment,” the statement added.
The government further assured that the guidelines would be continuously updated to address emerging threats and evolving technologies as part of its broader digital
transformation strategy.
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