In the 1914 after the amalgamation of the two Protectorates.
In its present state after numerous refurbishments, beside it are the adjourning offices.
The front view as it is today.
One of the most iconic and historic residences of State, shrouded in security and historical obscurity is now officially in the hands of the Lagos state Government. It is a building that remains steeped in history, predating the existence of Nigeria, built in 1886 or 1896 on the Marina. It was built as the home to the then Governor of the Southern Protectorate. The building was at the time resplendent and nestled in beautiful gardens with manicured lawns. It had clear views of the port and even had its own docking for a yacht. It was from here Lord Lugard governed as Governor-General and indeed his predecessors.
The first Nigerian to reside within its premises was Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, the Governor-General and President. He was followed by the Military Head of State, Major General Aguiyi Ironsi. Afterwards it was considered too exposed and unsafe for other leaders to reside there.
As a student of the nearby King's College, Lagos, I always marvelled at its sight, its majesty and grandeur as we sauntered off to worship at Our Saviour's, the Anglican Church situated on the edge of the complex.
The first Nigerian to reside within its premises was Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, the Governor-General and President. He was followed by the Military Head of State, Major General Aguiyi Ironsi. Afterwards it was considered too exposed and unsafe for other leaders to reside there.
As a student of the nearby King's College, Lagos, I always marvelled at its sight, its majesty and grandeur as we sauntered off to worship at Our Saviour's, the Anglican Church situated on the edge of the complex.
Largely it has existed as a guest house and a venue for state banquets, cocktails and as offices for some officials. Though it has undergone much refurbishments and numerous drenching in paint, these has not concealed its original features. It borders Lagos House on the right, the official residence of the Governor of Lagos and the NITEL building the tallest building in Nigeria on the left.
It is hoped that the Lagos State Government will borrow a leaf from Britain where Buckingham Palace is a number one tourist draw. Tourism remain an under exploited and under utilised area in Nigeria and my hope is the Government will wake up to this realisation. The plans of the Lagos State Government to transform it into a heritage centre, surely is a step in that right direction.
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