Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has unveiled an innovative educational puzzle book chronicling the state’s rich historical heritage. The first-of-its-kind publication was presented at a ceremony held at Civic Centre, Victoria Island on Tuesday.
The book, titled “Discover Lagos State: A History Puzzle Book,” represents a groundbreaking approach to historical education in the state. The governor, represented by his deputy Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, emphasized the administration’s commitment to knowledge-based initiatives that strengthen identity and promote creativity among citizens.
The educational tool is designed to stimulate young minds, promote curiosity, and deepen their pride as Lagosians while enhancing their collective understanding of Lagos State’s history and heritage. Sanwo-Olu described the publication as an initiative that successfully blends education, creativity, and cultural preservation.
During the presentation ceremony, the governor urged teachers, parents, and school administrators to maximize the book’s potential as a learning resource. He encouraged pupils to view history as tangible and exciting rather than abstract or distant, emphasizing that education must appeal to both intellect and emotion.
The governor acknowledged that building an informed generation requires ensuring citizens, particularly children, understand their origins and heritage. He stressed the importance of equipping them with knowledge about historical heroes, struggles, and defining values that shape Lagos State.
Former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola received commendation for establishing the Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB) in 2008. This foundational initiative represented a deliberate effort to preserve, document, and share Lagos’s story for future generations.
In his keynote address, Fashola noted that the puzzle book demonstrates what becomes possible when history and creativity converge. He emphasized that the publication makes the past both engaging and accessible to readers across different age groups.
Fashola explained that LASRAB’s goal is creating a central hub serving as a trustworthy and comprehensive repository of Lagos State’s memory, where students, leaders, scholars, journalists, and citizens can find facts, documents, policies, and development evidence.
The former governor called for adequate funding of LASRAB to enable the agency to fulfill its establishment purpose effectively. He emphasized that resources should extend beyond physical assets to include financial and digital components for preserving records of legal value and historical significance.
Professor Olawale Lawal, Director of Lagos State University Pre-Degree Studies at Epe Campus, reviewed the publication during the ceremony. He disclosed that the book pays tribute to the five traditional administrative divisions of Lagos known as IBILE, an acronym referring to Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos, and Epe.
The professor added that the book successfully combines lucidity through transparent illustration of historical facts with cultural connections. This approach makes complex historical information more accessible and engaging for readers of various educational backgrounds.
The puzzle book represents part of the Lagos State Government’s broader commitment to supporting knowledge-based initiatives. Officials emphasized that such projects strengthen identity, promote creativity, and inspire civic pride among the state’s diverse population.
Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded by reiterating his administration’s dedication to building a Lagos where history is preserved, knowledge is shared, and innovation leads development efforts. He expressed confidence that the puzzle book would serve as a valuable foundation for transmitting historical consciousness while entertaining readers.
The initiative reflects Lagos State’s ongoing efforts to modernize education through innovative approaches that engage students more effectively. Educational stakeholders have welcomed the creative method of historical instruction as a model for other states across Nigeria.