The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the state’s documentary heritage through enhanced records management, digitisation and wider public access to archival materials.
The assurance was given during the 2026 International Archives Day celebration organised by the Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB), with the theme, “Archives Are Accessible: Archives for Everyone.”
Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, described archives as invaluable heritage resources that preserve the history and collective memory of Lagos State for present and future generations.
Omotoso said the state government remains committed to digitising archival records, strengthening records management systems, promoting public awareness and expanding educational outreach programmes to make historical materials more accessible to researchers, students and the general public.
In his welcome address, the Director-General of LASRAB, Razaq Amodu, said the theme of this year’s celebration underscores the need to make archives accessible to everyone while promoting transparency, accountability and good governance.
Amodu noted that archives are more than repositories of old documents, describing them as valuable sources of information that support research, preserve cultural heritage and strengthen the collective identity of society.
Delivering the keynote lecture titled “Community Archives as Tools for Identity, Inclusion and Social Cohesion,” Professor Danaye Oguntola-Laguda of Lagos State University highlighted the role of community archives in preserving local histories and ensuring that the experiences of diverse communities are properly documented.
The event brought together archivists, academics, public officials and stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving access to archival resources and safeguarding historical records for future generations.