Sanwo-Olu warns Lagos residents against cybercrime, urges stronger online security

Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged residents to adopt stronger digital-security habits to protect themselves from cybercrime, warning that criminals frequently take advantage of people’s limited knowledge of online safety.

Sanwo-Olu made the call on Monday as the state joined other parts of the world to mark the 2026 Cybersecurity Awareness Month, an initiative aimed at encouraging safer internet use, promoting good cyber hygiene and improving protection against digital threats.

The governor stressed that the fight against cybercrime required collective action, noting that the responsibility for online safety should not rest solely on government agencies, technology companies and security experts. According to him, individuals, families, businesses and public institutions all have important roles in reducing cyber risks.

“Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Citizens must remain vigilant, understand common cyber risks, and take proactive steps to protect themselves from cybercriminals,” he said.

He noted that many people who fall victim to cybercrime lack knowledge of basic digital-safety measures, emphasizing the need for sustained public awareness campaigns.

“Most victims of cybercrime are those who are unaware of basic digital safety practices, making public education essential,” Sanwo-Olu added.

The governor’s appeal comes as the Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, MIST, and the Cybersecurity Advisory Board, steps up efforts to improve cybersecurity awareness and preparedness across the state.

The government said its participation in the international campaign was in line with the initiative spearheaded by the United States Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, CISA, which promotes the protection of digital systems, sound cyber hygiene and practical measures for staying safe online.

According to the state government, it has introduced a series of technology-driven cybersecurity initiatives over the past three years to strengthen digital trust among public institutions, businesses and communities.

The initiatives, coordinated by MIST and the Cybersecurity Advisory Board, are focused on developing technical capacity, enhancing institutional readiness and encouraging responsible engagement with digital platforms.

Earlier this year, Lagos launched the Lagos State Cybersecurity Guidelines to provide businesses of different sizes, including small, medium and large enterprises, with recommended security practices.

The framework outlines practical and scalable measures to help organisations assess potential vulnerabilities, manage cyber risks and safeguard essential digital assets.

The state has also widened access to cybersecurity training, public awareness campaigns and professional development programmes across government institutions, as part of efforts to develop a workforce equipped to tackle increasingly complex digital threats.