Former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, SAN, has called for the preservation of Lagos State’s historical identity, warning that poor documentation and arbitrary renaming of public spaces could lead to historical distortion and the erosion of societal values.
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Fashola made the call on Tuesday during the public presentation of “Discover Lagos State: A History Puzzle Book (Volume 1),” held at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Referencing historical records housed at the University of Glasgow, Fashola underscored the importance of proper documentation in shaping collective memory and promoting civic education.
“For instance, the Glasgow University archives service gives fascinating insights into the influence that the university, its staff and students have had in the history and development of many countries, including Nigeria,” Fashola said.
He cited the case of Dr. Isaac Ladipo Oluwole, a Nigerian who studied at the University of Glasgow from 1913 to 1918 and returned to become the first African Medical Officer of Health in the Lagos Colony.
“Dr. Oluwole pioneered school health services, with school inspections and vaccinations, and established the first Nigerian school of hygiene in Yaba in 1920,” Fashola noted.
Referring to Ladipo Oluwole Street in Ikeja, he remarked, “Those of us who drive through such streets will now better understand the legacy of individuals like Dr. Oluwole and why naming a street after him is a profound honour.”
“But it is perhaps instructive that we are currently discussing street naming and unnaming. I keep my gunpowder dry,” he added, suggesting restraint in tampering with established historical markers.
Fashola emphasised the importance of continued support for the Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB), the agency behind the development of the puzzle book.
“The work of LASRAB extends beyond educational books,” he said. “The ultimate goal is to create a central hub—a trustworthy and comprehensive repository of Lagos State memory. Mr Governor, LASRAB must be well-funded.”
Representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the event, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat praised the puzzle book as an innovative blend of education, creativity, and cultural preservation.
“This project is a unique learning tool designed to stimulate young minds. It promotes curiosity and deepens our pride as Lagosians,” Hamzat said.
He also lauded Fashola’s foresight in establishing LASRAB, recalling how his administration issued an executive order to ensure that all documentation of public projects, including schools and bridges, be archived in LASRAB and the Ministry of Science and Technology.
“This foundational act was more than administrative—it was a deliberate step to institutionalise, preserve, and disseminate the history of Lagos State for future generations,” Hamzat added.
He concluded by stressing the importance of historical awareness in shaping identity and guiding future progress:
“It is important that we understand our history so we don’t lose ourselves. This book crafts historical consciousness that informs and entertains, ensuring our past is neither distorted nor forgotten.”
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