The Donors
Late Honorable Adekunle Alli
The Late Chief Honorable Adekunle Alli (1934-2023) was a distinguished public historian, elder statesman, and chronicler of Lagos history. For over four decades, he has documented the social, political, and cultural evolution of Lagos from pre-colonial to modern times, drawing on extensive archival research in Nigeria and abroad. A former member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives (1979–1983), he later founded Akete Independent Communications, producing historical media such as This is Lagos and publishing seminal works on Lagos’ past. Remembered for his generosity and devotion to preserving Lagos’ heritage, Chief Alli’s lifelong work continues to inspire citizens interested in the city’s history and identity.
Video Tribute to Hon. Adekunle Alli by Professor Saheed Aderinto, 2023.
Late Professor Olakunle Lawal
Dr. Olakunle Lawal was a Professor of History at the University of Ibadan (2009-2013), where he received his PhD in History. Before teaching at the University of Ibadan, he served as the Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Lagos State University (2002-2003) and the Director of the LASU’s Centre for Development and Democratic Studies (2000-2003). Professor Lawal also engaged in Lagos State politics, serving as the Commissioner for Education in Lagos State (2003-2006) and the Commissioner for Local Governments (2006) under Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Through his numerous roles in academia, Professor Lawal published extensively on the history of political history in Lagos. Professor Lawal’s legacy is shaped by his public service and dedication to studying Lagos’ history.
