Unexpected opportunities and unwavering determination aligned, making Mojisola Lasbat Meranda a trailblazer and a symbol of hope for women in leadership, writes SONIA OKERE
Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda has made history as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, leading the 10th Assembly after the impeachment of Hon. Mudashiru Obasa over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office. Prior to her historic appointment, Hon. Meranda had served as Deputy Speaker under Hon. Obasa. She represents Apapa Constituency 1 in the Lagos House.
But who is Hon. Mojisola Meranda, the trailblazer now leading one of Nigeria’s most influential legislative houses?
A brief profile
Hon. Meranda is a Nigerian politician on the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). She first entered the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2015, representing Apapa Constituency 1. She was re-elected in 2019 and 2023.
Among the 40 members of the 10th Lagos Assembly, Hon. Meranda is one of only four women, making her rise to leadership even more remarkable.
Educational background
Born on August 16, 1980 into a royal family in Ojora, Lagos, Hon. Meranda began her education at St. Charles Nursery and Primary School before moving to Randle Primary School. She attended Lagos Anglican Girls’ Grammar School for her secondary education.
She later graduated from Lagos State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration, equipping her with the knowledge and skills to excel in public service.
Political journey
Hon. Meranda’s political career began actively in 2008 when she joined the Apapa local government. She served as the Senior Special Assistant on Intervention and Intergovernmental Affairs under then chairman Ayodeji Joseph, before becoming the Supervisory Councilor for Health. In this role, she focused on initiatives that sought to improve healthcare access and community well-being.
In 2014, she took on a leadership role in the private sector, becoming Head of Operations at Worthline International Services Limited, a company she helped establish in 2012.
In 2015, she returned to politics, and was elected to represent Apapa Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly. Since then, she has been re-elected twice.
Advocacy and contributions
Hon. Meranda is celebrated for her unwavering commitment to gender equality. She has consistently advocated for fair representation of women, particularly in politics, and has become a role model for aspiring female leaders in Nigeria.
She is also deeply committed to community development. Over the years, she has initiated numerous empowerment programmes, including medical outreach campaigns, educational support initiatives, and skill acquisition workshops to uplift her constituent.
As the new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Meranda is breaking barriers and inspiring a new generation of women to engage in politics.
