Oniru unveils Memoir charting Lagos’ rise to Megacity Status

Oba Abdulwasiu Lawal, the Oniru of Iruland, will launch his memoir, From City to Megacity: A Memoir of Lagos Urbanization (1999–2023), on Thursday, chronicling Lagos State’s transformation over 24 years.

Blending history, policy analysis, and personal insights, the book reflects on Lagos’ urban evolution and poses critical questions about its future readiness.

Drawing from his experience as a public servant, policy implementer, and traditional ruler, Oba Lawal described the memoir as both a tribute to Lagos’ growth and a call for forward-thinking urban governance.

“This book is for everyone invested in Lagos—its people, its potential, and its future. It demands reflection, learning, and action from leaders, civil servants, and citizens,” he said.

The memoir examines Lagos’ pre-1999 challenges, including chaotic urban development, inadequate infrastructure, poor waste management, and a struggling public transport system.

It highlights progress under successive administrations, such as the establishment of LAMATA, BRT systems, LagosHoms housing, enhanced waste management via LAWMA and PSP, and improved security networks.

The book also outlines a vision for the next decade, focusing on key issues like transportation, housing, security, agriculture, and public sentiment.

Enriched by Oba Lawal’s global academic training, including an Executive Master’s in Cities from the London School of Economics, the memoir offers a comparative perspective on sustainable urban growth, emphasizing people-centric development for Lagos’ future.