Photograph of the drawing room at Government House, Lagos.

Government, or State, House was built in 1896 on Marina Street, Lagos Island. It was initially used as the official residence of the colonial governor and up until 1967 fulfilled its purpose as a residence for heads of state. Following this period the Presidency moved to Ikoyi, however State House was and is still used for official State functions and visits. For example, UK Prime Ministers Margaret Thatcher and David Cameron have both been received at State House, as well as HRH Prince Charles and Princess Diana.

Teacher, scientist and photographer Edward Harland Duckworth was recommended to the post of Inspector of Education in Nigeria in 1930 following the commendation of his teaching work in Cheltenham. During his time in Nigeria he taught science, developed teaching methods and was elected as editor of Nigeria Magazine, adding his own photographs to articles.