Freedom of Information Act

Freedom of Information ActLASRAB Freedom of Information (FOI) Statement

Effective Date: May 2025

1. Purpose

The Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB) is committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and public access to government-held information in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act 2011 and Lagos State regulations.

This policy outlines the procedures by which members of the public may request and obtain access to records and information maintained by LASRAB.

2. LASRAB’s FOI Mandate

As the official archival institution of Lagos State, LASRAB:

  • Collects, preserves, and manages public records created or received by Lagos State Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

  • Facilitates access to public records for government, researchers, the media, and the general public.

  • Ensures that public records are made available in accordance with legal, security, and privacy considerations.

3. Records Accessible Under FOI

Records that may be made available under this policy include:

  • Public policies, reports, and official publications.

  • Government decisions, regulations, and circulars.

  • Approved budgets, expenditures, and audited accounts.

  • Statistical data, performance reports, and public program records.

  • Historical records of enduring value already transferred to LASRAB's archives.

4. Exemptions

Certain records may be restricted from disclosure in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, including but not limited to:

  • National security or defense information.

  • Personal privacy and confidential personal records.

  • Law enforcement and investigation materials.

  • Commercial and proprietary information.

  • Records protected by Lagos State Official Secrets Law or other applicable legal restrictions.

5. Application Procedure

Members of the public may request access to LASRAB records by submitting a written application containing:

  • Full name and contact information of the applicant.

  • A clear description of the information requested.

  • Preferred format (physical copy, electronic copy, or inspection).

Requests should be addressed to:

The Freedom of Information Officer
Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB)
PSSDC Road, Magodo GRA, Ikeja, Lagos State
Email: lasrab@gmail.com
Phone: +234 814 721 1574

6. Processing Timeline

  • FOI requests will be processed within seven (7) working days of receipt, as prescribed by law.

  • In complex cases requiring extended time, applicants will be notified of any additional time required.

  • Requests for records that are not in LASRAB custody will be redirected to the appropriate agency.

7. Fees

  • Reasonable fees may apply for duplication, reproduction, certification, or delivery of records.

  • LASRAB will notify applicants of applicable fees prior to processing.

8. Appeal & Review

Applicants whose requests are denied, partially granted, or delayed may seek review or appeal through:

  • LASRAB’s designated FOI Review Panel.

  • Lagos State Attorney-General’s Office.

  • Federal or State Courts of competent jurisdiction.

9. Confidentiality

LASRAB protects the confidentiality of all personal data collected through FOI requests in compliance with Nigeria’s Data Protection Regulations (NDPR), Lagos State Privacy Laws, and other applicable statutes.

10. Continuous Improvement

LASRAB remains committed to fostering a culture of open government and will continuously review its FOI processes to ensure compliance and improve accessibility for all stakeholders.

Last Updated: [Insert Date]