Lagos State has taken a significant step towards becoming a secure and smart megacity by inaugurating a Cybersecurity Advisory Council. This council, comprised of Nigeria’s leading cybersecurity experts, is tasked with safeguarding the state’s digital infrastructure and fostering a cyber-aware society.
The 7-member board, chaired by the award-winning Dr. Osakwe Fene, boasts impressive credentials. Dr. Adewale Obadare, a Harvard alumnus and cybersecurity leader, brings his expertise along with veterans like Taiye Lambo with over 30 years of global experience. Tech entrepreneur Ben Oguntala, known for his “Cyber Security Iron Dome” solution, joins the ranks alongside Chinenye Chizea, a prominent figure in Nigerian cybersecurity, and Dr. Bharat Soni, a digital risk management expert.
Also on the board is Dr. Adewale Obadare, Founder of Digital Encode Limited and a Harvard Business School alumnus.
Notably, the Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Tunbosun Alake, will also serve on the council, fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Inaugurating the board at the Governor’s office in Lagos, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasizing the urgency of this initiative, highlighted the rising threat landscape. He cited a global cyberattack every 39 seconds in 2023 and a local surge in ransomware attacks on Nigerian organizations.
“The increasing reliance on digital tools necessitates robust cybersecurity measures,” Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, declared.
“These tools offer immense potential, but neglecting cybersecurity could derail our progress,” he added.
The council’s mandate is multifaceted: creating effective cybersecurity policies, implementing advanced threat detection systems, promoting public awareness through training programs, and future-proofing Lagos’ digital infrastructure.
“This council embodies our vision of a public-private partnership in cyber defense,” Dr. Hamzat stated. “Their mission is to build an impenetrable digital fortress, protecting government systems, businesses, and the online lives of Lagosians.”
Lagos has consistently prioritized technology and digital solutions under the Sanwo-Olu administration, aiming to improve the lives of its citizens. Commissioner Alake emphasized the council’s role in safeguarding this digital ecosystem. He outlined the inauguration as a significant milestone in Lagos’ development plan, aiming for a secure and prosperous future.
“Lagos has invested heavily in infrastructure and fostered economic growth,” Mr. Alake remarked. “This council signifies our commitment to public-private partnerships for cybersecurity. We believe their work will secure not just government assets but also our future across all sectors, ensuring sustainable economic development.”
The Sanwo-Olu administration remains committed to building a digitally resilient and cyber-secure Lagos, where innovation can flourish and propel the megacity to prominence on the global stage. Chair Dr. Osakwe Fene assured the government of the council’s dedication to fulfilling its critical mandate.
