Biography

Alhaji Engr. Issa Alade Lawal was born on 3rd March 1948 in Lagos, Nigeria, to Alhaji-Imam Ibrahim Alao Lawal and Alhaja Sinotu Abeke Lawal, both of blessed memory.

Growing up in Lagos, young Issa displayed remarkable intelligence, curiosity, and discipline — qualities that would later define his life's journey. Raised in a loving and principled home, he imbibed early the values of honesty, humility, respect, and a strong sense of duty to both family and community.

Engr. Lawal began his formal education at the United Native African School, Ebute-Metta, Lagos (1955–1962), where his brilliance and leadership were quickly recognized.

He attended African Church Grammar School, Abeokuta (1963–1967) for his secondary education and later Anglican Boys Grammar School (now CMS Grammar School), Bariga, Lagos (1968–1969) for his Higher School Certificate.

His outstanding academic performance earned him a Federal Government scholarship, under the Bureau for External Aid for Education through the Federal Ministry of Education, to study Mining Engineering at Gamal Abdel Nasser University, Conakry, Guinea (1970–1975).

To succeed in the French-speaking environment, he learned and mastered French, both written and spoken. His adaptability and determination reflected the tenacity that defined his character.

He graduated with a Master of Science in Mining Engineering, distinguishing himself as an accomplished scholar.

Upon returning to Nigeria, Engr. Lawal fulfilled his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program with Oyeama Mines of the Nigerian Coal Corporation, Enugu State, Nigeria (1975–1976), gaining valuable experience in coal mining operations and safety management.

In 1977, he began his distinguished career with the Federal Ministry of Mines and Power as an Inspector of Mines Grade II. Through hard work, professionalism, and dedication, he rose steadily to become Deputy Director of Mines Inspectorate in January 2002, and later Acting Director of Mines Inspectorate.

Throughout his career, he was widely respected for his technical expertise, leadership, and mentorship of younger engineers. His work contributed significantly to strengthening mining safety and inspection frameworks in Nigeria.

A lifelong learner, Engr. Lawal attended numerous courses, seminars, and workshops — both locally and internationally — in Mining Engineering, Safety Management, Mineral Policy Development, and Environmental Sustainability.

He was a proud and active member of:

• Nigerian Society of Mining Engineers (NSME)
• Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS)
• Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE)

He was registered with both Council of Nigerian Mining Engineers and Geoscientists (COMEG) and Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), affirming his commitment to ethical engineering practice.

Within the NSME, he served meritoriously as Auditor (1996–2003) and Vice President (2003–2007), where he worked tirelessly to strengthen the society and support the next generation of engineers.

Beyond his professional achievements, Engr. Lawal was a loving husband, devoted father, and compassionate community leader.

He was married to Mrs. Mariam Eniola Lawal, and their marriage was blessed with wonderful children, all of whom he nurtured with wisdom, love, and faith.

A man deeply rooted in Islamic values, he lived a life guided by integrity, generosity, and respect for all.

He also gave back to his community, serving as Assistant General Secretary of the Sun City Estate Residents' Association (SERA), where his leadership, humility, and sense of responsibility earned him admiration.

Engr. Lawal loved sports (especially football) and had a lifelong passion for mathematics. He enjoyed early morning walks, watching movies with his family, and dancing.

He was known for his humor, warmth, and infectious laughter — a man who brought joy to every room he entered and related effortlessly with people from all walks of life.