James Pinson Labulo Davies: The Merchant-Sailor Who Helped Build Modern Lagos

James Pinson Labulo Davies was one of 19th-century Nigeria’s most remarkable figures—a man whose life bridged naval service, business innovation, and philanthropy. Born on August 14, 1828, in Lagos, he emerged as a pioneer industrialist, merchant-sailor, and statesman whose vision helped shape the foundations of Lagos as a commercial hub.

Davies began his career in the British Royal Navy, where he trained as a naval officer. He served as a lieutenant aboard HMS Bloodhound during the bombardment of Lagos in December 1851, a military action that eventually led to the end of the Atlantic slave trade in the region. He sustained injuries in battle but continued to serve with distinction, earning recognition for his courage and discipline. His naval background equipped him with leadership skills and international exposure that later defined his business and civic pursuits.

After leaving naval service, Davies became one of West Africa’s earliest indigenous entrepreneurs. He acquired ships and engaged in extensive maritime trade, establishing himself as a leading merchant and shipowner in Lagos. His business ventures included exporting palm oil and other agricultural products, which contributed to Lagos’ growing economy. More notably, Davies pioneered cocoa cultivation in West Africa, helping to establish it as one of Nigeria’s most profitable export crops. His role in introducing cocoa to the region earned him lasting recognition as one of Nigeria’s agricultural trailblazers.

Davies was also deeply involved in land development and philanthropy. He owned significant property in Lagos and contributed generously to community projects, schools, and churches. His philanthropy reflected his belief in education and enterprise as tools for social advancement, and he used his wealth to uplift others in his community.

In his personal life, James Pinson Labulo Davies married Sarah Forbes Bonetta, a woman of remarkable historical significance. Sarah had been taken under the guardianship of Queen Victoria after being freed from enslavement, becoming a well-known figure in Victorian high society. Their marriage in colonial Lagos was celebrated both in Nigeria and Britain, symbolizing a cultural bridge between Africa and Europe. A portrait of the couple taken in London in 1862 remains one of the most iconic representations of 19th-century African elites.

Throughout his life, Davies maintained a balance between loyalty to the British Empire and commitment to the development of his homeland. He represented the educated African elite of his time—ambitious, globally aware, and determined to prove that Africans could thrive in commerce and governance.

James Pinson Labulo Davies passed away on April 29, 1906. By the time of his death, he had left behind a legacy of innovation, courage, and generosity. His ventures in maritime trade, cocoa farming, and philanthropy helped lay the groundwork for modern Lagos and inspired generations of Nigerian entrepreneurs and civic leaders.

Sources:

Falola, Toyin, and Aderonke Adesanya. Nigeria and the British Empire: A Historical Account.

National Archives of Nigeria, Lagos Division.

The Lagos Standard, 1906 obituary.