Meet Mojisola Meranda, first female speaker of Lagos State

Mojisola Lasbat Meranda has etched her name in history as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly since its establishment in 1999.

Representing Apapa Constituency I, her emergence follows the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa on allegations of gross misconduct, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape.

Birth

Born on August 16, 1980, Mrs. Meranda comes from a distinguished Lagos royal lineage.

Her father, the late Chief T. A. Lawal Akapo, was the Ojora of Lagos and a local legislator. Her mother hails from the Oniru royal family, further solidifying her ties to Lagos’ elite heritage.

This blend of royal and political upbringing fueled her passion for leadership, which she attributes to growing up among politically active family members.

Education

Mrs. Meranda’s educational foundation is as impressive as her political trajectory.

She attended Randle Primary School in Surulere, followed by Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School and Ansar-Ud-Deen Secondary School, where she demonstrated early leadership as a library prefect and press club secretary.

She pursued higher education at Lagos State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration in 2013.

Additionally, she holds an advanced certificate in software development and continued her education at the University of Lagos in 2018.

Career journey

Her professional journey began in 2003 as a personal assistant to Dr. Olumuyiwa Gbadegesin, then Senior Special Assistant to Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

She later worked as a procurement manager in the oil and gas sector and held various influential roles in the Apapa local government, where she honed her leadership skills.

Journey to leadership

Mrs. Meranda has been an active member of the Lagos State House of Assembly since 2015, securing re-election in 2019 and 2023.

Before her historic rise to Speaker, she served as the Chief Whip of the Ninth Assembly, showcasing her commitment to legislative excellence.

Her election comes alongside Hon. Fatai Mojeed, who assumes the role of Deputy Speaker.

Their leadership signals a significant shift in the Assembly, reflecting a commitment to accountability and renewed governance.