Mojisola Meranda, born on August 16, 1980, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a distinguished politician and the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Her ascent in Nigerian politics is marked by dedication, resilience, and a commitment to public service.
Early Life and Family Background
Meranda hails from a prominent lineage, being the daughter of the late Chief T. A. Lawal Akapo, the Ojora of Lagos, and Princess M. A. Lawal-Akapo of the Oniru royal family. This rich heritage, encompassing the Ojora, Aromire, Onitana, Oloto, and Oniru royal families, instilled in her a profound sense of responsibility and service from a young age.
Education
Meranda’s educational journey began at Randle Primary School, where she completed her primary education in 1992. She then attended Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School and later Ansar-Ud-Deen Secondary School, earning her West African Senior School Certificate in 1998. Demonstrating a keen interest in technology, she obtained a Certificate in Software Development (Network Engineering) from NIIT. In 2013, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from Lagos State University. Her pursuit of knowledge continued at the University of Lagos, where she earned a Master’s in Public and International Affairs in 2020. Currently, she is furthering her education with a Master of Business Administration in Public Sector Management at the University of York, UK.
Career Path
Meranda’s professional career is a blend of public service and private sector experience. She began as a Personal Assistant to the Senior Special Assistant on Information Technology in the Lagos State Government. Subsequently, she served as the Personal Assistant to the Director of the Land Information System Support Unit in the Office of the Surveyor General. Transitioning to the private sector, she worked as an Office Manager at Cirrus Nigeria Limited in Lekki, Lagos, and later founded Worthline International Services Limited, where she held the position of Managing Director/CEO.
Political Career
Meranda’s political journey commenced with her involvement in the Alliance for Democracy, which evolved into the Action Congress, the Action Congress of Nigeria, and eventually the All Progressives Congress (APC). Her active participation and leadership skills led to her appointment as the Senior Special Assistant on Intervention and Inter-Governmental Relations in Apapa Local Government. She also served as the Supervisor for Health in the same local government. In 2015, she was elected to represent Apapa Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly.During the 8th Assembly, she chaired the House Committee on Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, as well as the House Committee on Establishment, Training, Pension, and Public Service. Her legislative focus emphasized amending outdated laws and implementing impactful constituency projects, including medical outreaches and educational support initiatives.
Historic Speakership
On January 13, 2025, following the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office, Meranda was unanimously elected as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, making history as the first female to hold this esteemed position. Her election signifies a progressive shift in the political landscape of Lagos State, highlighting the increasing recognition of women’s leadership capabilities.
Advocacy and Impact
Throughout her career, Meranda has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights, challenging stereotypes and calling for greater representation of women in politics. She has initiated various projects, including water supply schemes, school equipment programs, support for petty traders and widows, and training programs for artisans. Her commitment to public service and community development has earned her respect and admiration across the state.
Personal Life
Meranda is married and balances her professional responsibilities with family life.๎ She enjoys reading and traveling, pursuits that contribute to her well-rounded personality and informed worldview.
Net Worth
While specific details about Meranda’s net worth are not publicly disclosed, her extensive career in both the public and private sectors suggests a stable financial standing. Her roles have encompassed significant responsibilities, likely accompanied by commensurate remuneration.
Mojisola Meranda’s journey from a royal lineage to becoming the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and commitment to public service.๎ ๎Her leadership marks a significant milestone in the political history of Lagos State, inspiring many, especially women, to pursue leadership roles and contribute to societal development.
Be the first to comment