The Lagos State Government has launched a new Cybersecurity Operations Centre (CSOC) to protect its digital infrastructure from cyber threats. This cutting-edge facility, unveiled at the Year 2024 Ministerial Press Briefing on Monday, May 20th, is set to become the nerve center for monitoring, detecting, and responding to cyber threats in real time within the state.
The Honorable Commissioner for Science, Innovation and Technology, Mr. Olatunbosun Alake, emphasised that the CSOC is a pivotal component of a broader strategy to enhance overall security and governance in Lagos. The center will leverage advanced technologies and a dedicated team of cybersecurity experts to protect the state’s critical digital infrastructure from potential attacks.
Recognising the evolving nature of cyber threats, Lagos State has forged strategic partnerships with leading cybersecurity firms and international organizations. These collaborations will provide access to the latest technologies and expertise, bolstering the state’s defenses against increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.
To further strengthen its cybersecurity framework, the state has also established a cybersecurity council composed of experts from both the public and private sectors. This council will play a crucial role in advising the government, shaping policies, and implementing programs and training initiatives to fortify the state’s cyber resilience.
In addition to the CSOC, Lagos State has embarked on a comprehensive Data Protection Compliance Project. This initiative includes sensitization and awareness workshops for government officials and the establishment of dedicated Data Protection Officers across various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).
The Data Protection Compliance Project aims to safeguard the privacy rights of individuals and businesses, foster secure data transactions, and ensure that Nigerian businesses remain competitive in the global arena by adhering to international best practices.
The state’s commitment to digital transformation is further underscored by the ongoing Metro Fibre project, which aims to establish a robust fiber optic network across Lagos. This infrastructure will support a 24-hour economy, enabling businesses to operate securely and efficiently, thereby creating jobs and boosting the state’s GDP.
With the establishment of the CSOC, Lagos has become the first state in Nigeria to replicate a national-level cybersecurity facility. This pioneering move reflects the state’s recognition of the growing importance of cybersecurity in an increasingly digitized world. By proactively addressing cyber threats, Lagos is not only protecting its own digital assets but also setting an example for other states and regions to follow.
