LASRRA, LASDA to launch strategic documentation drive for Lagos diaspora database

LASRRA, LASDA to launch Strategic Documentation Drive for Lagos Diaspora Database

In a landmark move to foster greater inclusion and engagement of Lagosians/residents living abroad, the General Managers, Lagos State Residents Registration Agency, Mrs. Bilikiss Adebiyi- Abiola and Lagos State Diaspora Agency (LASDA), Mr. Jermaine Sanwo-Olu have announced a strategic partnership aimed at documenting members of the diaspora who are indigenes or residents of Lagos State.

This disclosure was made today, Thursday, 10^th, 2025 during the meeting of these two Agencies at the LASRRA Headquarters, Alausa, Ikeja.

The General Manager, LASRRA, Mrs. Adebiyi –Abiola expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the benefits of accurate data in driving inclusive governance. She said that verifying their identity is very important and that the Agency is open to exploring. “The members represent a powerful force in the socio-economic advancement of Lagos and the initiative is part of our commitment to ensure every Lagosian, regardless of location, is counted.”

“The initiative seeks to integrate Lagos residents in the diaspora into the State’s data ecosystem through LASRRA’s innovative identification and registration platform. This collaboration will enable the State to better plan for the needs of its global residents, promote diaspora participation in governance, and enhance access to State-driven programs and services”, she concluded.

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According to Mr. Sanwo-Olu during his speech, he said: “the synergy is very important to give diaspora residents sense of belongings and ease of doing business. This also, will help the State to strengthen ties with its global community, recognizing the vast contributions of Lagosians in the diaspora toward economic growth, cultural exchange and community development”.

By working closely with the Agency for diaspora affairs, Lagos State, through LASRRA aims to create a comprehensive database of its residents abroad to better understand their needs and integrate their potential into the State’s long-term development plans.

Speaking on the development, the General Manager, LASDA stated, “Lagosians abroad are an integral part of the state’s growth and development. With this partnership, we are taking a bold step to formally recognize and include them in our systems, ensuring they are not left behind in our plans for a greater Lagos. Our diaspora citizens are not just ambassadors of Lagos around the world — they are investors, innovators, and change-makers. To fully harness the value, they bring, we must first ensure they are seen, heard, and counted. This documentation drive is the first step in a larger vision of sustained diaspora engagement.”

The campaign will involve digital outreach, town hall meetings, and awareness programs. Through this process, Lagos residents abroad will be encouraged to register with LASRRA, gaining access to a unique identification number and a platform for increased engagement with the State government. With technology, the two parties believed this is doable. The ICT staff of LASRRA and LASDA will brainstorm on how the exercise and process will be achieved.

This effort aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision of a digitally inclusive Lagos, where innovation and collaboration power the delivery of responsive governance.

The Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA) is responsible for creating a comprehensive database of all residents in Lagos, ensuring access to public services and enabling effective governance through accurate population data.

The Lagos State Diaspora Agency (LASDA) is committed to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between Lagos State and its global citizens, promoting opportunities for development, investment, and engagement.

Basirat Lawal (Mrs.)

Director, Public Affairs Unit

LASRRA

April 10, 2025