Mojisola Meranda: Biography of the First Female Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly

Mojisola Lasbat Meranda is a trailblazer who has carved her name into the history books as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Sworn into office on January 13, 2025, her rise to this esteemed position underscores her dedication to public service, resilience, and leadership. Her life story is an inspiration to many, particularly women striving to break barriers in politics and governance.

Early Life and Family Background

Mojisola Lasbat Meranda was born on August 16, 1980, into a prominent family with deep roots in Lagos State. She is a member of both the Ojora and Oniru royal families, two of Lagos’s most distinguished lineages. Her late father, Chief Taoreed Lawal-Akapo, was a legislator who later became the Ojora of Lagos. Her mother also hails from the Oniru royal family, emphasizing her strong ties to Lagos’s traditional leadership.

Her brother, Abdulwasiu Lawal, is the current Oniru of Iru Kingdom and a former Commissioner of Agriculture in Lagos State, further showcasing her family’s commitment to public service and governance.

Education

Mojisola’s educational journey is a testament to her commitment to personal development and excellence. She began her early education at St. Charles Nursery and Primary School before transferring to Randle Primary School. For her secondary education, she attended Anglican Girls Grammar School and later Ansar-Ud-Deen Secondary School, where she excelled academically and participated actively in extracurricular activities as a library prefect and Secretary of the Press Club.

Also Read : Folashade Adekaiyaoja: Meet Nigeria’s First Female DSS Deputy Director-General

Her thirst for knowledge continued as she earned a Certificate in Software Development (Network Engineering) from NIIT. In 2013, she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from Lagos State University (LASU). Not stopping there, she pursued a Master’s in Public and International Affairs (MPIA) from the University of Lagos, completing it in 2020. Currently, she is enrolled in an MBA program specializing in Public Sector Management at the University of York, United Kingdom.

Political Career

Mojisola Meranda’s political journey began at an early age, influenced by her family’s active involvement in governance. At just 18 years old, she started attending political meetings alongside her brothers and cousins, which ignited her passion for politics.

Her professional political career gained momentum when she served as a personal assistant to Dr. Olumuyiwa Gbadegesin, who was the Senior Special Assistant on Technology and Special Projects to then-Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Lagos State.

To diversify her experience, she worked as a procurement manager at Cirrus Nigeria Limited, an oil and gas company, between 2007 and 2008. She later returned to public service, holding key positions in Apapa Local Government, including Senior Special Assistant on Intergovernmental Affairs and Supervisory Councillor for Health.

In 2015, she contested and won her seat as a representative of Apapa Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly. Re-elected in 2019, she served as Chief Whip during the Ninth Assembly and was later elected Deputy Speaker in 2023. Her election as Speaker in 2025, following the impeachment of her predecessor, was a historic moment for Lagos State and a significant milestone for women in Nigerian politics.

Achievements and Advocacy

Mojisola Meranda has consistently demonstrated her commitment to improving the lives of her constituents and advancing good governance. Some of her notable achievements include:

1. Constituency Development
   • Implementing medical outreaches to improve healthcare access.
   • Launching educational programs to enhance literacy and learning.
   • Providing water supply initiatives to address basic community needs.
2. Legislative Contributions
   • Actively participating in the amendment of outdated laws to align with modern realities.
   • Advocating for transparency and accountability in governance.
3. Women’s Advocacy
   • Championing women’s rights and promoting greater representation of women in politics.
   • Breaking stereotypes about women’s capabilities in leadership roles.

Her leadership style has been described as inclusive and progressive, and she has continually emphasized the importance of unity and development in governance.

Her Vision as Speaker

As the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda brings a fresh perspective to governance. Her vision includes:

• Strengthening Legislative Processes: Ensuring the Assembly operates transparently and efficiently.
• Promoting Gender Equality: Encouraging more women to participate in politics and governance.
• Community Development: Prioritizing initiatives that address the needs of Lagos State residents, particularly in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Her historic appointment marks a turning point in Lagos politics, inspiring women across Nigeria to pursue leadership roles.

Personal Life

Mojisola Meranda is married to John Meranda, and the couple has children. Despite her demanding career, she is deeply committed to her family and manages to balance her personal and professional responsibilities effectively. Her ability to maintain this balance is a testament to her resilience and organizational skills.

Her Yoruba heritage and strong Christian faith play a central role in her values and decision-making. She often credits her family and faith as her sources of strength and guidance in her journey.

Significance of Her Speakership 

Mojisola Meranda’s election as Speaker is more than a personal achievement—it’s a win for women’s empowerment, representation, and breaking barriers in Nigerian politics. Her appointment signals progress in dismantling long-standing gender stereotypes and demonstrates that women are equally capable of excelling in leadership roles traditionally dominated by men.

Her role as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly serves as an inspiration for young girls and women across Nigeria, showing that determination, education, and resilience can lead to significant achievements. By occupying this historic position, she has paved the way for future generations of women to step into leadership roles, not only in Lagos State but also nationwide.

Her leadership comes at a critical time when the demand for more inclusive governance is at an all-time high. With her background, experience, and vision, Mojisola Meranda is well-positioned to lead the Assembly into an era of reforms and greater accountability.

Challenges and Prospects

Despite her achievements, Mojisola Meranda is not without challenges. Leading the Lagos State House of Assembly, one of Nigeria’s most prominent legislative bodies, comes with immense responsibilities. Key challenges she might face include:

1. Balancing Interests: Managing the diverse views and interests of Assembly members to ensure unity and productivity.
2. Public Expectations: Delivering on promises and maintaining transparency to meet the high expectations of Lagosians.
3. Advancing Reforms: Implementing legislative reforms that address critical social, economic, and infrastructural challenges in Lagos State.

However, her track record suggests she is well-equipped to navigate these challenges effectively. Her focus on community development, legislative excellence, and gender equality positions her as a transformative leader who can drive impactful change.

Impact on Lagos State and Beyond

Mojisola Meranda’s ascension to the speakership is a pivotal moment for Lagos State. Her leadership is expected to bring about:

• Enhanced Legislative Practices: With her experience and dedication, the Assembly is likely to see improved legislative processes and greater accountability.
• Increased Gender Representation: Her position as Speaker may encourage political parties and institutions to prioritize women in leadership roles.
• Community-Centered Governance: Her focus on grassroots development ensures that legislative actions align with the needs of Lagosians.

Beyond Lagos, her story is a beacon of hope for women across Nigeria, showcasing that gender should never be a barrier to achieving greatness.

Legacy and Future Goals

As Mojisola Meranda begins her tenure as Speaker, her legacy is already taking shape. She is not only a symbol of progress but also a champion of governance that prioritizes inclusivity, transparency, and development. Her future goals likely include:

• Mentoring Young Women: Creating platforms for women and young girls to access leadership training and opportunities.
• Policy Reforms: Advocating for policies that address pressing issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Lagos State.
• Sustained Advocacy: Using her platform to champion gender equality and the empowerment of underrepresented groups.

Her legacy will be defined by her ability to lead effectively while inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.

Conclusion

Mojisola Lasbat Meranda’s journey from a young girl with political aspirations to becoming the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and vision. Born into a family deeply rooted in public service, she has leveraged her education, experience, and passion to break barriers and create a path for others to follow.

Jada Pollock Biography, Net Worth, Wiki, Real Name, Husband, Wizkid Manager

Her leadership represents a new chapter for Lagos State, where inclusivity and progress take center stage. As she embarks on this historic role, Mojisola Meranda remains a beacon of hope and an inspiration for women striving to make a difference in their communities and beyond.

Her story is a reminder that with perseverance and purpose, the impossible becomes possible.