TBS, Lafarge unveil Independence obelisk
Tafawa Balewa Square Management Board and the Lafarge Africa Plc yesterday unveiled the newly rehabilitated independence obelisk as part of the Phase One Development Launch of the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos. The project was executed by the TBS Management Board in partnership with Lafarge Africa Plc under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. Speaking at […]
Tafawa Balewa Square Management Board and the Lafarge Africa Plc yesterday unveiled the newly rehabilitated independence obelisk as part of the Phase One Development Launch of the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
The project was executed by the TBS Management Board in partnership with Lafarge Africa Plc under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
Speaking at the unveiling on Thursday, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, De Jumoke Oduwole said the project aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to preserving national heritage.
“This administration understands that rebuilding Nigeria goes beyond economic reforms. It is also about protecting our people, honouring our history and preserving our culture, safeguarding the symbols and values that define us as a nation,” Oduwole said.
Oduwole applauded Lafarge Africa and other investors for partnering with the federal government, which she said demonstrates their leadership, patriotism and shared commitments to Nigeria’s growth.
“This is one of the visibly symbolic, historic interventions that show clarity and visually that we are rebuilding Nigeria with intentionality and pride,” the Minister added.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu represented by Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, noted that the newly unveiled monument will boost and enforce “Lagos status as the culture, art and tourism capital of Nigeria.”
The GMD/CEO of Lafarge Africa, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, said the obelisk, beyond its cultural significance as a national monument, is of unique importance to the cement company.
“The completion of this project reflects the power of collaboration. With a strong focus on structural integrity, aesthetics, safety and accessibility, every activity ensured the preservation of the original design and texture. We restored the inscriptions, engravings, and symbolic carvings on the Obelisk; also rehabilitated its immediate surroundings including walkways, lawns, and paving. The installation of a new drainage system, and improved accessibility features, including ramps, and pedestrian pathways, make for an aesthetic welcome to a whole new world,” the GMD said.
In her welcome address, The Managing Director/CEO of TBS Management Board, Lucia Shittu said with the successful completion of the park’s first development phase, “we are looking forward to the Remembrance Arcade’s redevelopment, set for completion in the first quarter of 2026.”
According to her, Tafawa Balewa Square has been a historic symbol of Nigeria’s independence and democracy, being the location where the Union Jack was lowered, and the Nigerian flag was first hoisted.
“An obelisk adorned with carvings of the pioneer leaders, proudly stands on this site. Furthermore, the square hosts the annual memorial service honouring the sacrifices of our armed forces,” she said.