Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has called on residents to remain vigilant against cybercrime and adopt basic digital safety practices. This call comes as Lagos joins the global community to mark the 2026 Cybersecurity Awareness Month. In a statement signed by the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, Sanwo-Olu emphasized that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. He urged citizens to take proactive measures to protect themselves from cybercriminals.
Sanwo-Olu noted that many cybercrime victims are vulnerable because they lack knowledge of basic digital safety practices. He stressed the importance of public education in preventing online fraud and other cyber threats. The governor's statement highlighted the need for citizens to understand common cyber risks and take proactive steps to protect themselves. This, he believes, will significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cybercrime.
The state's participation in the annual campaign aligns with the global initiative led by the United States Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. This initiative promotes safer digital practices, improved cyber hygiene, and stronger protection of digital systems. Lagos has been actively pursuing cybersecurity initiatives aimed at strengthening digital trust and improving the security of businesses, government institutions, and residents over the past three years.
Through the state's Cybersecurity Advisory Board and the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, the government has implemented programs designed to improve cybersecurity awareness and strengthen the state's digital security infrastructure. These efforts have led to the launch of the Lagos State Cybersecurity Guidelines earlier this year. The guidelines provide a framework outlining security best practices for small, medium, and large businesses.
The Lagos State Cybersecurity Guidelines offer practical and scalable security measures tailored to different categories of businesses. This provides organizations with clear guidance on protecting their digital assets. Additionally, the state has expanded cybersecurity training, awareness, and professional development programs across public institutions. These programs aim to build local capacity and strengthen digital resilience.
Lagos is also working towards achieving ISO 27001 certification and developing other advanced capabilities to enhance digital trust and safeguard critical digital infrastructure. As part of activities for the awareness month, the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, in collaboration with the Cybersecurity Advisory Board led by Prof. Fene Osakwe, will conduct multilingual awareness campaigns across social and traditional media throughout October.
The campaigns, which will be delivered in English, Yoruba, and Pidgin English, aim to ensure wider reach and accessibility across communities in the state. Residents will receive practical guidance on identifying and avoiding phishing scams, creating strong passwords, and other essential digital safety practices. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance the state's cybersecurity posture and protect residents from cyber threats.
Key points
- Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasizes that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility.
- Lagos has launched the Lagos State Cybersecurity Guidelines to provide security best practices for businesses.
- The state is working towards achieving ISO 27001 certification to enhance digital trust.
