The Lagos State Government is launching a sweeping digitisation of its public records, as the Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB) begins converting historical documents into digital formats to safeguard the heritage of Nigeria’s most populous state.
Ms. Toyin Ogunlana, Director-General of LASRAB, confirms that the landmark project is “preserving our past for future generations” by transforming fragile, ageing records into durable, easily accessible digital archives. “We protect these records from deterioration or loss, while making them available with a click of a button for anyone who needs them,” Ogunlana says in a statement seen by Technology Times.
LASRAB is digitising records dating back to the colonial era, creating what the Lagos State Government calls “a strategic effort to preserve and enhance access to the rich historical and governmental heritage of Lagos State.” The initiative, which is aligning with global digital preservation standards, also includes the physical restoration of delicate documents to prevent permanent damage.
“Digital storage guarantees the safety and longevity of historical documents, making vital information accessible to researchers, students, government institutions, and the public,” Ogunlana says. She adds that the bureau is also collaborating with academic and historical institutions to support research and public education.
The central digital archive, upon completion, will offer secure, user-friendly online access to government files, historical materials, and culturally significant content. “Digital storage guarantees the safety and longevity of historical documents, making vital information accessible to researchers, students, government institutions, and the public,” Ogunlana says. She adds that the bureau is also collaborating with academic and historical institutions to support research and public education.
Established in 1995, LASRAB serves as the official custodian of Lagos State’s public records. The digitisation drive reflects a broader global movement to protect documentary heritage from loss, in line with advocacy from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). UNESCO recognises that preserving archival records is vital for building equitable, informed societies through historical continuity.
In a call to action, Ogunlana is inviting citizens and institutions to contribute to the evolving digital archive. “History is a collective asset,” she says. “We welcome anyone with relevant materials to come forward. This digitisation project extends beyond government records – it preserves the collective memory of our people.”
The project is expected to improve access to crucial documents for legal reference, academic inquiry, policy-making, and civic education—bringing the past to the fingertips of present and future generations.
LASRAB: FAQs about digitisation of Lagos historical records
1. What is LASRAB?
The Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB) is the official archive of Lagos State, preserving public records and historical materials.
2. What is being digitised?
LASRAB is digitising documents from the colonial era to the present, including government files, historical records, and cultural archives.
3. Why is this digitisation important?
It prevents document deterioration, improves accessibility, and preserves history for future generations.
4. Who can access the digital archives?
Upon completion, access will be available to researchers, students, institutions, and the general public—locally and globally.
5. How is the project being carried out?
LASRAB is using global digitisation standards and collaborating with educational and archival institutions.
6. Can individuals contribute?
Yes. LASRAB welcomes historical materials from individuals and organisations to enrich the digital archive.
7. Will the original physical documents be destroyed?
No. Fragile originals are being restored and preserved alongside their digital versions.
8. How does this align with international standards?
The project supports UNESCO’s global call for the preservation of documentary heritage through digitisation.
9. When will the digital archive be available online?
No specific launch date is given, but the process is ongoing, and full access is expected after completion.
10. What are the benefits to Lagos and Africa at large?
The archive will enhance transparency, support education, protect cultural memory, and position Lagos as a leader in digital heritage management.
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