The Lagos State Government has unveiled a comprehensive set of cybersecurity guidelines aimed at protecting businesses, public institutions, and residents as the state grapples with an estimated N250 billion ($500 million) in annual losses due to cybercrime.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, announced the framework on April 14, 2026, describing it as a critical step toward positioning Lagos as a secure and globally competitive digital hub. The guidelines were developed in collaboration with the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Council, chaired by Fene Osakwe.
Omotoso explained that as Lagos rapidly evolves into a SMART City with expanding digital infrastructure, the risk of cyberattacks has grown significantly. The new guidelines provide a practical and scalable roadmap to help organisations safeguard their systems and data against evolving threats.
The framework aligns with key national laws, including the Cybercrime Act and the Nigeria Data Protection Act. It places particular emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which often lack robust security measures.
Organisations are encouraged to adopt data minimisation principles, implement secure storage with encryption, and develop clear incident response plans. In the event of a breach, they must notify relevant authorities such as ngCERT within 72 hours, as well as affected customers and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission.
The government clarified that the guidelines are not mandatory regulations but practical tools to promote best practices and strengthen overall digital resilience.
The framework underscores that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Secure systems in businesses and government institutions not only protect economic stability but also enhance Lagos’s attractiveness to global investors.
Stakeholders are urged to assess the cybersecurity readiness of third-party vendors and cloud service providers. The government is calling for immediate action, including self-assessments, implementation of basic security controls, and investment in staff training.
Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Tubosun Alake, was commended for his role in driving the initiative.
Lagos currently boasts over 22 million active digital users and a startup ecosystem valued at approximately $15.3 billion, making it Africa’s fastest-growing digital economy. However, this large digital footprint also increases its exposure to cyber risks.
The release of the guidelines is seen as a proactive response to these vulnerabilities, aiming to build a safer digital environment that supports sustainable economic growth and innovation in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
The full document is now available on the Lagos State Government’s official website for public access and implementation.
