Somolu: The Town That Prints Nigeria, Builds Trust And Fought For Its Identity

By Dedeigbo Samson Ayodeji

Somolu, a historic community in Lagos State, is much more than the image often portrayed by outsiders. Beyond the challenges associated with the area lies a remarkable history of entrepreneurship, industrial development, financial innovation and a people determined to preserve their identity.

From its historical connection to the 19th-century political developments in Lagos to its emergence as Nigeria’s renowned printing hub and its association with the popular traditional savings system, Somolu has played an important role in the social and economic development of Lagos and the country.

As Olorogun Gbolahan Bago-Stowe once observed, “We have many stories to tell ourselves, rather than letting outsiders tell our stories.”

One of the remarkable aspects of Somolu’s history is the origin of its name, which is traced to a man identified as Somolu, an Abeokuta indigene from Agoba in Owu, Abeokuta.

Historical accounts link Somolu’s story to the political crisis involving King Akitoye and King Kosoko in the mid-19th century. Following disagreements with Kosoko, King Akitoye reportedly fled Lagos and sought refuge in Abeokuta, where political divisions and unrest subsequently developed.

Madam Efunroye Tinubu, a prominent historical figure from Abeokuta, played a significant role in the efforts that facilitated Akitoye’s return to Lagos. Somolu and George were also associated with the developments surrounding the restoration of Akitoye to the throne.

On December 28, 1851, British forces bombarded and captured Lagos, an event known as the Reduction of Lagos. King Kosoko fled to Epe, while King Akitoye was restored to the throne on January 1, 1852.

Against the background of the political uncertainties of the period, Somolu and George reportedly moved away from Lagos Island to establish settlements on the mainland. Their movement and the settlements established by other prominent families contributed to the development of communities that now form part of present-day Somolu and neighbouring areas.

Other names associated with the area’s early settlements include George, Bashua, Suenu, Onisemo of Pedro and Ashogbon of Bariga. Historical accounts also associate the allocation of lands in the area with the Oloto Idejo traditional institution, which remains an important part of Lagos history.

Beyond its historical roots, Somolu has established itself as one of Nigeria’s most important centres for printing and publishing. The community’s reputation as the country’s printing hub is reflected in the concentration of printing presses and related businesses across different parts of the area.

From Bajulaiye Road to Oguntolu, Shipeolu, Fola Agoro, Akeju, Apata and Fadeyi, printing businesses, publishing outfits, graphic-design studios and other related enterprises have created a vibrant commercial network that attracts customers from different parts of Lagos and beyond.

A considerable volume of materials used for political campaigns, religious programmes, educational activities, corporate promotions and social events across Nigeria are produced by businesses operating in Somolu.

Election posters, campaign banners, school textbooks, church programmes, wedding invitations, newspapers, magazines and other printed materials have continued to strengthen the community’s reputation.

The industry also provides employment opportunities for printers, graphic designers, machine operators, distributors, apprentices and other professionals, making it an important source of livelihood for thousands of residents and business owners.

Somolu’s contribution to Nigeria’s financial and entrepreneurial history is equally significant through its association with Alphaeus Taiwo Olunaike, popularly known as Alajo Somolu.

Olunaike, an Ijebu-born entrepreneur, was born in 1915 and reportedly died in 2012. After spending several years learning tailoring, he travelled to Cameroon before returning to Nigeria with an entrepreneurial idea that would eventually make him a household name in Lagos.

He began operating a traditional daily savings collection business, popularly known as Ajo or Esusu, using a bicycle to visit customers and collect their daily contributions.

Although the initiative initially faced doubts, his consistency, discipline and commitment gradually earned him the confidence of customers, particularly market women and small-scale traders who needed a convenient way to save money.

His reputation grew over time, and he became widely known as Alajo Somolu, a name that reflected the trust he had established with his customers.

Through the traditional savings system, he demonstrated how small daily contributions could provide financial support to individuals who might not have easy access to formal banking services.

His entrepreneurial journey remains an example of how trust, consistency and financial discipline can turn a modest initiative into a successful business.

Somolu also has a history of agitation for administrative recognition and autonomy. The local government was established on May 27, 1976, following the restructuring of local government administration in Lagos State.

Historical accounts indicate that the area emerged from the former Mushin District Council and was initially identified as Mushin East.

However, traditional rulers, influential residents and other stakeholders reportedly pushed for a distinct administrative identity that would reflect the community’s historical background and aspirations.

The agitation eventually contributed to the emergence of Somolu as an independent local government area, marking an important chapter in the community’s political history.

For its people, the development represented more than a change in administrative structure; it was an opportunity to establish a distinct identity and secure recognition for their community.

Today, Somolu remains an important contributor to Lagos’ commercial and industrial activities, particularly through its printing and publishing businesses. Its history also offers valuable lessons in entrepreneurship, traditional financial inclusion, community development and the importance of preserving cultural identity.

Although the community, like many urban areas, continues to face developmental challenges, those challenges should not overshadow its achievements and contributions to the wider society.

From the historical figure whose name became the identity of a community to the printing businesses that serve customers across Nigeria, and from Alajo Somolu’s bicycle-powered savings initiative to the struggle for administrative autonomy, the community has several remarkable stories that deserve greater recognition.

As Bago-Stowe’s observation reminds residents, Somolu’s history and achievements should not be left entirely in the hands of outsiders to interpret.

The community has a responsibility to document its heritage, celebrate its achievements and ensure that future generations understand the people, struggles and entrepreneurial spirit that shaped its identity.

Indeed, Somolu is more than what outsiders may have been told. It is a community with a rich history, a productive economy and a legacy worth celebrating.