Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has called for a technology-driven approach to safeguard and preserve the cultural and historical heritage of the state for generations to come.
In an effort to preserve the rich history of Lagos and shape its future, Sanwo-Olu sees the need for inclusion of technology-driven approach and its crucial role in safeguarding the city’s cultural and historical heritage for the future.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by Mrs. Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the State Government, made the call at a symposium organised by the Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB) with the theme, “Lagos: Bridging Knowledge and Unravelling History.”
In an effort to preserve the rich history of Lagos and shape its future, Sanwo-Olu sees the need for inclusion of technology-driven approach and its crucial role in safeguarding the city’s cultural and historical heritage for the future.
In his message, the Lagos State Governor urged participants to explore innovative ways to engage younger generations with Lagos’ history to prevent the spread of misinformation.
He emphasised the significance of collaboration between public and private sectors, civil society, and communities in shaping the narrative of Lagos.
“Our cultural and historical legacy is not only a treasure to protect but a foundation for economic growth,” Sanwo-Olu said, while stressing the importance of approaching the city’s history with objectivity, inclusivity, and passion.
The Lagos State Government is dedicated to integrating Lagos’ history into everyday life, particularly for the benefit of younger generations, beyond traditional learning environments, he said.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that the history of Lagos is integrated into everyday life, especially for the younger generations, ” Sanwo-Olu said while reiterating the government’s commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable Lagos, recognizing the pivotal role of history in shaping the city’s future.
The symposium was attended by history enthusiasts, and scholars who gathered to discuss the importance of preserving the city’s legacy. Notable attendees included Professor Olanrewaju Fagbohun (SAN), former Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University; Professor Rasheed Olaniyi; Mr. Olabode Agoro, Head of Service, Lagos State and Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, among others.
During his remarks, Mr. Agoro emphasized the importance of refreshing our collective memory on Lagos’ past. He highlighted that history not only teaches us valuable lessons but also guides the socio-political and cultural evolution of the city.
Omotoso reiterated the symposium’s objective of sharing knowledge and gaining deeper insights into Lagos’ cultural and historical context. This, in turn, promotes peace and unity within the community.
Former Attorney-General of Lagos State, Mr. Olasupo Shasore (SAN), urged Nigerians to actively participate in efforts to retrieve historical artifacts and documentation currently held by foreign governments, particularly the British.
Fagbohun stressed the significance of respecting the values of Lagos’ indigenous population while also encouraging collaboration with non-indigenous communities to maintain peaceful co-existence.
Professor Rasheed Olaniyi, a history professor, emphasized the importance of collaboration between academic and cultural communities to create balanced historical narratives that incorporate oral traditions.
Mrs. Toyin Ogunlana, the Director-General of LASRAB, highlighted the symposium’s role in analyzing the historical, colonial, and socio-political influences that have shaped Lagos into its current state.
Established in 1995 as part of a Public Sector reform programme, the Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB) is responsible for managing Lagos State records to enhance planning, policy processes, service delivery, and heritage preservation. The bureau’s mandate is to regulate, preserve, and disseminate accurate records of enduring value on Lagos State in a professional manner, utilizing best practices in information and knowledge management.
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