Mojisola Lasbat Meranda has etched her name in the history of Lagos politics as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Representing Apapa Constituency I, Meranda’s rise to this pivotal position underscores her dedication, resilience, and commitment to public service.
Early Life and Education
Born on August 16, 1980, into the illustrious Lawal-Akapo family, Meranda’s heritage is deeply rooted in Lagos’ traditional and political elite. Her father, the late Chief T. A. Lawal-Akapo, served as the Ojora of Lagos and was also a legislator at the local government level. Her maternal lineage is linked to the Oniru royal family, further grounding her in the rich cultural fabric of Lagos.
Meranda began her education at St. Charles Nursery and Primary School before moving to Randle Primary School in Surulere. Her secondary education spanned Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School and Ansar-Ud-Deen Secondary School, where she cultivated a disciplined academic foundation. She later pursued a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration at Lagos State University, graduating in 2013. In 2018, she expanded her academic journey with further studies at the University of Lagos.
Professional and Political Trajectory
Meranda started her professional career as a Personal Assistant at the Office of the Surveyor General, where she worked from 2003 to 2007. She then transitioned to the private sector, serving as Procurement Manager at Cirrus Nigeria Limited, an oil and gas company. Her foray into politics began with her roles in Apapa Local Government, where she served as Senior Special Assistant on Intervention and Intergovernmental Affairs and later as Supervisor for Health.
In 2015, she was elected to the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Apapa Constituency I. Re-elected in 2019 and 2023, she gained prominence as the Chief Whip of the ninth assembly. By June 2023, her leadership qualities propelled her to the position of Deputy Speaker of the 10th Assembly. Her eventual emergence as Speaker in January 2024 followed the impeachment of her predecessor, Mudashiru Obasa.
Legislative Vision and Advocacy
As Deputy Speaker, Meranda has championed legislative reforms that prioritize social equity and economic empowerment. She is an outspoken advocate for gender equality, particularly in political representation. Her tenure has seen increased efforts to address systemic barriers limiting women’s participation in leadership roles.
Meranda has also been active in implementing community-focused projects, ranging from medical outreaches to educational initiatives aimed at supporting students and artisans. Her legislative agenda reflects a keen understanding of the socioeconomic challenges facing her constituents, and she has consistently worked to amend outdated laws to meet their current needs.
Leadership and Legacy
Meranda’s ascendancy to Speaker marks a significant milestone not only for Lagos but for women’s leadership across Nigeria. Known for her inclusive and approachable leadership style, she has earned respect for her ability to foster collaboration within the assembly and among her constituents.
Her historic achievement as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly serves as an inspiration for aspiring female leaders. Meranda’s journey exemplifies the potential of women to lead and effect meaningful change in Nigeria’s political landscape. Her story is a testament to the value of perseverance, competence, and a steadfast commitment to public service.
On the Shoulders of Amazons: Women Leaders in Lagos Politics
Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele
Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele served as the Deputy Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2002 under Governor Bola Tinubu. Born on April 30, 1939, she was a prominent figure in Lagos politics, having previously represented Lagos Central in the Nigerian Senate from 1992 to 1993. Her tenure as deputy governor was marked by her advocacy for women’s rights and good governance. However, she resigned from her position in 2002 due to political differences.
Sinatu Ojikutu
Sinatu Ojikutu made history as the first female Deputy Governor of Lagos State, serving from 1992 to 1993 under Governor Michael Otedola. Her tenure was marked by a commitment to public service and the advancement of women’s participation in governance.
Folashade Ambrose-Medebem
Folashade Ambrose-Medebem is a distinguished business leader and public servant with an extensive background in finance, strategy, and sustainable development. She holds a Bachelor of Accounting degree from London Guildhall University and an MBA from the Open University, Milton Keynes, UK. Her career spans roles in the UK, Nigeria, and Europe, including serving as Director of Communications, Public Affairs & Sustainable Development at Lafarge Africa Plc. In 2023, she was appointed as the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, bringing her wealth of experience to the public sector.
Oluremi Tinubu
Born on September 21, 1960, Oluremi Tinubu has been a pivotal figure in Lagos politics. As the First Lady of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, she established the New Era Foundation, focusing on youth development and environmental awareness. She further served as the Senator representing Lagos Central from 2011 to 2023, prioritizing human capital investment and social development.
Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire
Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, born on September 29, 1959, served as the Deputy Governor of Lagos State from 2011 to 2015 under Governor Babatunde Fashola. Prior to this, she was the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in Lagos State from 2003 to 2011. In 2016, she was appointed as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, playing a pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s development agenda.
Funmi Tejuosho
Adefunmilayo Tejuosho, born on March 25, 1965, is a seasoned Nigerian politician and lawyer. She has been a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Mushin Constituency I, and has held positions such as Deputy Speaker and Chairperson of the House Committee on Finance. Tejuosho is known for sponsoring the Lagos State Protection Against Domestic Violence Law of 2007, demonstrating her commitment to social justice and women’s rights.
Nike Akande
Onikepo Olufunmike Akande, born on October 29, 1944, is a distinguished Nigerian economist and industrialist. She made history as Nigeria’s first female Minister of Industry, serving twice in 1997 and 1998. Akande also served as the President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, becoming the second female to hold that position. Her contributions have been pivotal in shaping Nigeria’s industrial and economic policies.
Jumoke Okoya-Thomas
Jumoke Okoya-Thomas is a notable Nigerian politician who represented Lagos Island Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2015. She has been an advocate for women’s rights and empowerment, contributing to various legislative processes aimed at improving the socio-economic status of women in Lagos State and Nigeria at large.