Biography & Career Of Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal

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Biography & Career Of Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal

His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Abisogun II, is the 15th Oniru of Iruland.

He was born to the late Chief Taoreed Lawal Akapo, the Ojora of Lagos (1977-1993), and Olori Muinat Olabisi Abeni Ajasa.

Oba Lawal hails from the prestigious Ojora, Aromire, Shokun, and Abisogun branches of the Oniru royal families in Lagos State.

He ascended to the throne as the 15th Oniru on June 7, 2020, following the passing of Oba Idowu Oniru (Akiogun II) in September 2019.

He was formally presented with the office staff by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on the same date.

Before his ascension to the throne, Oba Lawal served as the Commissioner for Agriculture in Lagos State.

Early Life And Education

His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Abisogun II, was born in Lagos, Nigeria, on July 24, 1970. He is the son of the late Chief Taoreed Lawal-Akapo, who served as the Ojora of Lagos from 1977 to 1993, and Alhaja Muinat Olabisi Abeni Ajasa Lawal-Akapo. He is also the sibling of Hon. Mojisola Meranda, a distinguished political figure.

Oba Lawal’s early education included attending Holy Trinity Primary School (1976-1982) and St. Gregory College in Ikoyi (1982-1987), where he completed his O’Level Certificate. Oba Lawal pursued higher education at the University of Port Harcourt, earning a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Botany between 1988 and 1992.

He further advanced his academic qualifications with a Master’s in Violence, Conflict, and Development from the prestigious School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. He also completed an Executive MSc in Cities at the London School of Economics (2018-2020).

In addition, Oba Lawal has undertaken several executive programs at renowned institutions, including Harvard University, Cambridge University, and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. A member of the Yoruba ethnic group, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal practices Islam.

Career

Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal’s career in public service began after he completed his National Youth Service Corps in 1993. He then joined the Nigeria Police Force, serving as a superintendent of police from 1996 until his retirement in 2008.

During his time with the force, he held various positions across the country, gaining valuable experience in security and community dynamics. In 1999, he transitioned to government service as Aide de Camp to the then-Governor of Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a role he held until 2007.

After serving as Aide de Camp, Oba Lawal was appointed Senior Special Assistant on Special Projects, where he focused on agricultural Development and youth empowerment in Lagos. In July 2011, he was appointed Commissioner for Agriculture and Cooperatives under Governor Babatunde Fashola.

Later, under Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, Lawal was appointed Commissioner for Housing in 2015. He returned to the Ministry of Agriculture under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu from 2019 until his ascension to the throne in 2020.

During his tenure, he led projects that attracted attention from international organizations, including the World Bank. In addition to his work in agriculture and housing, Oba Lawal contributed to enhancing security in Lagos State.

He served as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, where his efforts significantly improved security infrastructure and resources. His diverse leadership and dedication to public service laid the foundation for his eventual ascension as the 15th Oniru of Ireland in June 2020

Personal Life

Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, the 15th Oniru of Iruland, is married to HRH Queen Mariam Lawal. The couple first met in 1995 and married in 2000, recently celebrating their 24th wedding anniversary. They have children, although details about their family are kept private.

Net Worth

Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal’s net worth is estimated at approximately $60 million, positioning him among the wealthier traditional rulers in Nigeria.

His wealth stems from a diverse range of investments and his notable roles in public service, particularly within the Lagos State government, where he held significant positions. This financial standing reflects his influence and prominence as the 15th Oniru of Iruland.