In a proactive move to safeguard its systems, assets, and data from cyber threats, the Lagos State Government has established a Cybersecurity Advisory Board.
This board has been entrusted with the crucial task of spearheading the design, implementation, and management of a robust Cybersecurity initiative within the state.
As articulated by Gbenga Omotoso, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Lagos State has taken a pioneering step by forming this forward-thinking and strategic board, positioning itself as a trailblazer in technology, innovation, and governance.
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The distinguished members of the board include notable experts such as Dr Osakwe Fene, an Amazon bestselling author and recipient of the prestigious 2023 Global Cyber Educator of the Year Award in the United Kingdom, Mr Taiye Lambo, the inaugural Chief Information Security Officer for the City of Atlanta, and Dr Bharat Soni, the Chief Information Security Officer at Guaranty Trust Bank Plc. Additionally, the board features professionals like Chineye Chizea, a security architect involved in the World Bank/Federal Government of Nigeria Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) project, Ben Oguntala, a former Cyber Security Project Manager at NFU Mutual Insurance UK, Dr. Obadare Adewale, Co-Founder of Digital Encode, and Mr. Tunbosun Alake, the Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology.
Furthermore, the board comprises representatives from key entities such as the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, the Ministry of Justice, the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), and the police department.
The primary objective of the Cybersecurity Advisory Board is to provide strategic recommendations to the government on policy development, program planning, refinement, and training initiatives related to Cybersecurity efforts. This board is a diverse and inclusive group, encompassing cybersecurity industry leaders, public sector experts, ICT professionals, law enforcement officials, educators, and media representatives.
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As Lagos State transitions towards a digitally interconnected future, the imperative for a comprehensive cyber-security framework and strategy cannot be overstated. The increasing global connectivity and utilization of cloud services for storing sensitive data necessitate a proactive approach to mitigate both inherent and residual risks.
Aligned with its THEMES Plus Agenda and Smart City program, Lagos State is embarking on projects that will shape a more interconnected future.
The data generated from these initiatives are invaluable assets that demand robust digital protection measures.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended the board members, emphasizing that the establishment of this advisory body will not only reinforce Lagos as a technology hub in Africa but also as a secure cyber-tech hub, instilling confidence in investors regarding the state’s commitment to cybersecurity.