Unveils Oniru’s memoir chronicling Lagos urban transformation
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has advocated heightened resilience in response to the growing environmental threats facing the state, including excessive rainfall, rising water levels, and desertification.

He stated this when he unveiled a new book by Oniru of Iruland, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, as part of the celebrations to mark the monarch’s 55th birthday.

The book, titled “From City to Megacity: A Memoir of Lagos Urbanisation (1999–2023), was launched in Lagos and focuses on key sectors, such as agriculture, housing, transportation, security, and the environment.

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented at the ceremony by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, described the 465-page book as a vital contribution to urban policy discourse in Lagos, emphasising the critical need for the city to prioritise modern infrastructure, sustainable land use, and environmental conservation to ensure its long-term survival.

The memoir offers a firsthand account of Lagos’ transformation over the past two decades, drawing on Oba Lawal’s extensive public service career.

The governor stressed that while governance plays a key role, the focus should be on ensuring the city is adaptable to these challenges, as it is vital for the survival and future of the residents.

He, however, underscored the importance of preserving the city’s wetlands and ensuring that no one builds in areas that would cause environmental hazards.

He added that urban development often overlooks the delicate balance between progress and sustainability, and that cities worldwide are frequently too focused on rapid growth without addressing the environmental implications.

Sanwo-Olu, therefore, called for a collaborative approach, where the government, technocrats, traditional leaders, and the private sector would work together to tackle the city’s challenges.

Former Lagos State Governor, Raji Fashola, commended the Oniru for his efforts in documenting the evolution of Lagos over the past two decades and its timely exploration of these critical issues, which directly tie into the government’s efforts to ensure Lagos State remains resilient and self-sufficient.

He stated that the book not only captures the history of the city’s growth but also provides invaluable insights into the challenges of urban governance.

Fashola emphasised the importance of taking a holistic view of city development, noting that Lagos State’s growth as a megacity presents unique opportunities and challenges, especially regarding urbanisation, food security, and sustainability.

Oba Lawal expressed gratitude to those who have supported his journey in public service and on the throne, dedicating the book to the resilient spirit of Lagos residents and the continuous progress of the state.

A professor of Planning and Heritage, University of Liverpool, Taibat Lawanson, in her review, described the 465-page book as a significant knowledge resource that combines both autobiographical and analytical elements, pointing out that it’s not just a vanity project but a valuable contribution to understanding public service, urban governance, and sustainable development.