Babatunde Fashola

**Babatunde Raji Fashola, CON, SAN** Babatunde Raji Fashola (born June 28, 1963) is a distinguished Nigerian lawyer and politician who served as the Governor of Lagos State from 2007 to 2015, and subsequently as the Federal Minister of Power, Works and Housing from 2015 to 2019, and later as the Minister of Works and Housing from 2019 to 2023. He is widely regarded as one of Nigeria's most effective public administrators of the modern era. **Early Life and Education** Fashola was born in Lagos, Nigeria. He obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from the University of Benin (Uniben) in 1987 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in November 1988. He subsequently began his career as a legal practitioner. His dedication to law and public service led him to achieve the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), a professional title conferred on legal practitioners who have attained distinction in the profession. **Career Progression and Major Achievements** Fashola's career in public service began in Lagos State. He served as Chief of Staff to the then-Governor of Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, before successfully contesting and winning the gubernatorial election in 2007. As Governor of Lagos State (2007–2015), Fashola oversaw significant infrastructural and administrative reforms. His tenure is marked by massive urban renewal, expansion of public infrastructure (including roads, bridges, and public transportation systems), improvement in environmental management, and enhanced security across the state. His administration is credited with transforming Lagos into a more functional and globally competitive megacity. Following his successful term as governor, he was appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015 as the Minister of Power, Works and Housing. He managed Nigeria's infrastructure portfolio, overseeing crucial national projects in road construction, housing development, and efforts to improve the national electricity grid. In 2019, his portfolio was streamlined, and he served as the Minister of Works and Housing until the end of the administration in 2023. **Notable Works** A notable aspect of Fashola’s career is his focus on governance and policy development. His intellectual contributions often extend beyond his official roles. He has recently penned the foreword for a new book on Nigeria’s renewable energy law, demonstrating his continued engagement with critical national policy areas. He also frequently serves as a guest lecturer and speaker at high-profile events, offering perspectives on governance, infrastructure, and national development. **Current Status** Post-government service, Babatunde Fashola remains an influential figure in Nigerian public life and continues to express strong opinions on national matters, urging government officials to assert Nigeria's position in global affairs. He maintains his legal practice and receives recognition for his contributions to the nation; for instance, he was recently honored with a fellowship award by Eko University of Medicine and Health Sciences (EkoUNIMED), where he also delivered the maiden convocation lecture.