In a bold cultural nod to one of Bariga’s most celebrated sons, the Lagos State Government, through Bariga LCDA, has officially renamed the iconic Charly Boy Bus Stop to the Olamide Baddo Bus Stop. The announcement came in late July 2025, as part of a wider initiative honouring Nigerian cultural figures—among them King Sunny Ade, 9ice, Tony Tetuila, and even Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka with street dedications as well
Why rename the bus stop?
Bariga LCDA Chairman Kolade Alabi David explained that the change serves to recognise individuals who have brought pride to the community and put Bariga on the global map. Olamide Adedeji—affectionately called Baddo—is among the most influential entertainers to emerge from the area, inspiring youth and celebrating Lagos through his art, especially with his anthem “I Love Lagos”.
Though Charly Boy had long lent his name to the junction—a name organically given by locals due to his presence in the area and iconic biker persona—the official designation was never gazetted by government. Still, the bus stop became etched in collective memory as part of Lagos’s street lexicon.
Reactions: mixed but meaningful
Predictably, the move sparked debate. Charly Boy (Area Fada) himself responded with characteristic fire, insisting, “You can rename a place… but you can’t rename a legacy”, and vowing his influence would remain—legacy not erased by any signboard change.
Legal minds weighed in too. Human rights lawyers like Femi Falana SAN and Monday Ubani SAN condemned the renaming process as unconstitutional and done without public consultation, warning it risks ethnic exclusion and undermining Lagos’s cosmopolitan spirit. Many drivers and social media users questioned whether the new name would stick, pointing out past renamings (such as “2nd Pedro”) that never caught on among Lagosians.
Yet across young Lagos—especially among Olamide’s fans and Bariga natives—there is palpable excitement. Comments on social media praised the move:
“Olamide Baddo has an appeal to the youth and Danfo Drivers… with clear signposts and his image, Charly Boy will become a thing of the past!”
“This renaming is a powerful union of cultural heritage and modern recognition… kudos to Bariga LCDA for honoring Olamide’s legendary impact”.
Why the change could be worth it
- Homegrown pride: Olamide was born and raised in Bariga. His journey from humble beginnings to national and global prominence provides inspiration to countless youth in the community. Naming the bus stop after him is a powerful symbol of success rooted in local soil.
- Modern relevance: While Charly Boy’s legacy is historic and deserves respect, Olamide represents the new generation—creative, ambitious, and deeply connected to Lagos’s evolving identity. His music celebrates Lagos’s vibrancy, so anchoring a landmark in his name reflects the city’s modern cultural pulse.
- Recognition beyond nostalgia: This renaming sends a message that the city values both tradition and forward momentum. It’s not about erasing memories but expanding the narrative and making room for new legacies that resonate with today’s Lagos.
What remains—
While the renaming may take time to sink in—longstanding habit may keep the old name in daily use—the process has opened up conversations about who gets honoured and how public spaces reflect lived culture. Even critics admit that if the signage, imagery, and local embrace follow through, the new name could gradually succeed in everyday use.
A celebration of Lagos creativity
For Voice of Lagos readers, the Olamide Baddo Bus Stop is more than a transit landmark—it is now a cultural landmark, a tribute to a Bariga-born talent whose rise encapsulates the promise of Lagos. Yes, Charly Boy’s influence and contributions remain undeniable, but it is fitting that a new generation now sees itself reflected on the streets of its own city.
In charts, concerts, and community upliftment, Olamide has carried Lagos on his shoulders—giving back by putting it on a global stage. As such, honoring him with a bus stop is more than symbolic—it’s change that feels timely, deserved, and hopeful. And perhaps in time, “Baddo Bus Stop” will feel as natural to Lagosians as the rhythms of the city itself.
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