Lagos monarch, the Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal CON (Abisogun II), has stressed the need for government's regulatory institutions in the built industry in Nigeria to be flexible and develop the capacity to learn, adapt and respond effectively to the dynamics of modern cities across the world
The Oniru who was speaking during the recent Lagos State University 2026 Distinguished Personality Lecture held inside Aderemi Makanjuola Lecture Theatre, maintained in his thought-provoking presentation, that the survival of modern cities depend not merely on plans or infrastructure, but on the capacity of institutions to respond to changes
The monarch in his paper titled “Urban Governance and the Knowledge Economy: Strengthening Institutions for a 21st Century Lagos"*, identified institutional rigidity, rather than the absence of planning, as the greatest threat confronting contemporary cities.
He stressed that while infrastructure can be developed rapidly, institutional knowledge requires time, continuity and sustained investment in human capital.
According to the revered royal father, Lagos' continued progress depends on institutions that can absorb data, retain institutional memory and evolve in response to evidence and outcomes.
Drawing from global governance frameworks, including the Kellogg Logic Model, he explained how effective governance connects inputs such as data systems, regulatory reforms and skilled professionals to outputs in service delivery, revenue mobilisation and inter-agency coordination, which according to him, ultimately lead to resilience, inclusion and economic productivity.
Oba Lawal emphasised that reforms must be assessed based on their measurable impact on citizens’ welfare rather than good intentions alone.
He described the knowledge economy as the driving force of modern urban governance, noting Lagos State’s progress in leveraging data for resident registration, revenue administration, transport coordination and public health management.
However, he cautioned that data alone does not govern cities, stressing that only capable and learning institutions can translate information into effective policy action.
The monarch further observed that no megacity is governed by government alone. He described Lagos’ urban governance as a networked system involving public agencies, the private sector, communities, universities and traditional institutions. Within this framework, he noted that traditional leadership remains vital in providing legitimacy, social trust, conflict resolution and community-level knowledge, particularly in informal and rapidly evolving urban spaces.
Using Iru Kingdom as a case study, Oba Lawal demonstrated how traditional institutions can adapt within a modern, knowledge-driven economy. He highlighted initiatives focused on enterprise development, cultural promotion, youth mentorship, peacebuilding and advocacy for coastal community development that integrate indigenous environmental knowledge into formal planning and climate governance.
He concluded by challenging policymakers, scholars and the next generation of city leaders to embrace continuous learning as the foundation of effective and sustainable governance.
In her address as Chief Host, the Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University, Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola *OLATUNJI-BELLO*, mni, NPOM, emphasised that modern societies reward not only academic credentials, but also character, vision and the capacity to address complex societal challenges. Describing Lagos as a rapidly expanding megacity at a critical developmental stage, the ninth substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University stressed that strong and resilient institutions are essential for transforming ideas and knowledge into sustainable progress.
Professor Olatunji-Bello highlighted the vital role of universities in shaping future leaders and providing practical solutions to evolving urban challenges. She commended the Distinguished Lecturer, HRM Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, for exemplifying how traditional leadership can successfully harmonise cultural heritage with modern governance and development.
Addressing students and members of the university community, the Professor of physiology urged active engagement, critical thinking and a strong sense of responsibility, describing education as a powerful tool for transformation and leadership. She expressed confidence that the lecture would inspire informed, courageous and integrity-driven leaders capable of shaping the future of Lagos State and Nigeria.
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Distinguished Professor Dapo *ASAJU*, expressed the university’s appreciation for hosting an intellectually grounded traditional ruler. He charged traditional leaders to contribute meaningfully to national development and encouraged the Distinguished Lecturer and other royal fathers to help chart a progressive path towards a better Nigeria.
The 2026 Distinguished Personality Lecture also featured goodwill messages from several eminent personalities, including the Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Lasbat *MERANDA*; Honorable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr Tolani *SULE*; representative of the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Dr Richard-Mark *MBARAM*; All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman, Lagos State Chapter, Pastor Cornelius *OJELABI*; representative of all royal fathers, HRM Oba Abidemi *ABEREEJO*, the Alakesan of Akesan Kingdom; and the General Manager of Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr Olalekan *BAKARE-OKI*
At the conclusion of the lecture, the Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the university, presented an Award of Appreciation to the Distinguished Lecturer, His Royal Majesty Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan *LAWAL*, for his intellectual contribution and service to society.
The lecture attracted academics, policymakers, traditional rulers, public servants, staff and students, who gathered to examine the future of urban governance in Africa’s largest megacity.
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