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Top 10 Interesting Facts About Lagos State
When you think of Lagos, Traffic and Hustle come to mind. While this is true, there’s more. Here are 10 interesting facts about Lagos State.
Lagos State is a city in South-Western Nigeria, known for its tremendous opportunity and serves as the commercial and economic hub of Nigeria.
With a rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and a thriving nightlife scene, Lagos is a city that never sleeps.
As the most populous city in Nigeria and one of the largest in Africa, Lagos is a melting pot of different cultures, religions, and ethnic groups.
Having its official name as Lagos Metropolitan City, it houses about 20 local government areas.
However, there are numerous and stupendous things you may not know about Lagos.
In this article, we will explore 10 interesting facts about Lagos State that highlight its unique history, culture, and character.
Èkó ò ní bàjé o!
1. It’s The Centrepiece Of African Entertainment
National-Arts-Theatre In LagosThanks to its thriving entertainment industry and rich cultural heritage, Lagos has become a hub for African music, film, and fashion, attracting local and international artists, producers, and enthusiasts.
The city is home to Nollywood, the biggest film industry in Africa, and the second-largest film industry in the world by volume, producing over 2,500 films per year.
Not to mention, Lagos is also home to some of Africa’s biggest music stars, such as Wizkid, Davido, and Tiwa Savage, who have gained international recognition for their talent and influence.
And speaking of a thriving fashion industry and vibrant nightlife, Lagos takes the lead, making it a centrepiece of African entertainment.
2. It’s The Financial and Economic Hub of Nigeria
Lagos State is a significant contributor to Nigeria’s economy, accounting for approximately 30% of the country’s total GDP. With a GDP of over NGN 27.125 trillion ($145.141 billion), Lagos is the largest economy in Nigeria and the largest market in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Its diverse economy is built around various sectors, including finance, technology, manufacturing, and entertainment, making it a hub of commercial activity in the region.
The city of Lagos is home to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Nigeria’s principal securities exchange. The NSE plays a crucial role in mobilizing savings and investment in the country and contributes significantly to the growth of the economy.
Additionally, Lagos accounts for about 80% of Nigeria’s foreign trade flows, making it an essential gateway for international trade in the country.
Lagos State also generates over 50% of Nigeria’s port revenues, thanks to its strategic location on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. The city’s two main ports, Apapa (Lagos Port Complex) and Tin Can Island, handle a significant amount of cargo traffic, making them among the busiest ports in West Africa.
Moreover, Lagos has been ranked as one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, according to a millionaire population index. This growth is fueled by a young and entrepreneurial population, an increasingly diversified economy, and a thriving startup ecosystem.
Lagos’ growth and development have positioned it as a key player in the region and an attractive destination for investors seeking opportunities in Africa’s largest economy.
3. The Smallest and Most Populated
Oshodi Market in LagosIt may seem absurd, however, it is true. Lagos is the smallest among the 36 states in Nigeria in terms of land area, yet the most populated state in Nigeria.
The city’s small size and high population density create a vibrant and bustling environment, with people, cars, and businesses all competing for space in a dynamic and exciting atmosphere.
The high population density in Lagos State comes with its challenges, including traffic congestion, high cost of living, and a shortage of affordable housing.
Despite these challenges, Lagos remains the commercial and economic centre of Nigeria and has attracted people from all over the country and the world, making it a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities.
According to the BBC, it is a city that won’t stop growing.
“By 2050 Nigeria will have twice the population it has today, more than half will live in Lagos, and about 60% of them will be under 25.”
To the people living in the rural sides of the country, Lagos is a new world, a land of opportunity.
4. Highest Number of Millionaires In Nigeria
Lagos, as the economic and commercial hub of Nigeria, is a city of opportunities and wealth, which makes it not so surprising that it houses the highest number of millionaires in Nigeria and ranks fourth in Africa.
Thanks to the thriving economy, favourable business environment, and strategic location, Lagos has become a magnet for entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders seeking to tap into the vast opportunities available in the city.
The city’s position as the financial centre of Nigeria and home to the Nigerian Stock Exchange has attracted a significant number of high-net-worth individuals, contributing to the city’s millionaire population.
The high number of millionaires in Lagos has not only created wealth for individuals but has also contributed significantly to the city’s economy. Millionaires often invest their wealth in various sectors, creating jobs and generating revenue for the government through taxes and other levies.
Although there is a large number of poor people as well, it still does not lead to the poverty level in the country. Uptown cities like Lekki, Ajah, and Banana Island are inhabited by some of the richest people in Nigeria.
5. Tallest Building In West Africa
NECOM Building in LagosThe fact that Lagos has the tallest building in West Africa is indeed a fun fact that showcases the city’s modern and rapidly growing skyline.
The NECOM House skyscraper, standing at a height of 160.02 meters and with 32 floors, is the tallest building in Nigeria and West Africa. It serves as an impressive feat of engineering and architecture, and a symbol of Lagos’ progress and development.
Built in 1979, the NECOM House was initially designed to house the headquarters of Nigeria’s telecommunications company, NITEL. However, it has since become a landmark in Lagos, with the communications spire at the top of the tower serving as a lighthouse beacon for Lagos Harbour.
Moreover, the NECOM House’s height and location in Lagos make it a popular destination for tourists and visitors, who can enjoy panoramic views of the city from its upper floors. The building also serves as a symbol of the city’s ambition and progress, as it continues to grow and develop into a modern metropolis.
As Lagos continues to develop and expand, it is likely that more skyscrapers will be built, adding to the city’s already impressive skyline.
6. Second Longest Bridge In Africa and First In West Africa
Sky view of the Third Mainland BridgeThe Lagos third mainland bridge is the longest bridge in West Africa and second only to Egypt’s 6th October Bridge in Africa. The bridge stretches over 11,800 kilometres, connecting Lagos Island to the mainland
The Third Mainland Bridge was completed by the government of General Ibrahim Babangida in 1990 and has since become an iconic landmark of Lagos, with millions of people crossing it daily.
The construction of the Third Mainland Bridge was a significant engineering feat, requiring sophisticated designs and advanced construction techniques. The bridge has been a vital component of Lagos’ transportation infrastructure, helping to alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity between Lagos Island and the mainland.
7. Lagos was named by the Portuguese
It is fascinating to think that Lagos state’s name, which has become synonymous with hustle and bustle, commerce, and entertainment, has its roots in a Portuguese word meaning “lake.”
This is because the Portuguese were the first Europeans to explore the region. The city was named after a lagoon, which was a significant feature of the region when the Portuguese first arrived. The name “Lagos” has become so ingrained in the state’s identity that it is hard to imagine it being called anything else.
8. Houses the Best Beaches In the Country
Eko BeachLagos, no doubt is a land surrounded by water. This is more or less why it is called the Island. However, these bodies of water have developed into some of the most beautiful beaches and resorts in Nigeria.
The beaches in Lagos State offer a variety of experiences, from the serene and peaceful to the vibrant and exciting.
La Campagne Tropicana, for example, is a beach resort that offers visitors a chance to experience the traditional African way of life with various cultural activities, including pottery, drumming, and dancing.
Lekki Beach, on the other hand, is a popular spot for water sports, picnics, and barbecues, with its calm waters and beautiful views.
Other beaches in Lagos State, such as Eko Tourist Beach Resort, Elegushi, and Eleko, offer a mix of natural beauty and modern amenities, making them perfect for relaxation, socializing, and adventure.
These beaches have become popular destinations for both locals and tourists, who come to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.
9. Former Capital of Nigeria
Lagos was once the capital of Nigeria before it was moved to Abuja in 1991. Lagos played a crucial role in Nigeria’s journey to independence and was the capital of the country for almost 30 years, from 1960 to 1991.
As the former capital, Lagos was the centre of political, economic, and cultural activity in Nigeria, with many government institutions, businesses, and diplomatic missions located in the city. The city’s strategic location on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean also made it an essential gateway for international trade and commerce in Nigeria.
However, as the population of Lagos grew rapidly, the city faced many challenges, including overcrowding, traffic congestion, and a shortage of infrastructure. These challenges made it difficult for the government to operate effectively and efficiently, and many people felt that the capital should be moved to a new location that could better accommodate the needs of a modern, growing country.
In 1991, the Babangida government decided to move the capital of Nigeria from Lagos to Abuja, a planned city located in the centre of the country. The move was aimed at addressing the challenges faced by Lagos and creating a new capital that could serve as a symbol of Nigeria’s aspirations for the future.
Today, Abuja is a modern and vibrant city that serves as the political center of Nigeria, with many government institutions, businesses, and international organizations located there. Lagos, on the other hand, remains the commercial and economic hub of Nigeria and one of the largest cities in Africa, with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving entertainment industry.
10. Most Efficient Transport System in Africa
Lagos State has one of the most efficient transport systems in Africa.
One of the key elements of Lagos State’s efficient transport system is its extensive network of buses, popularly known as BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) buses. These buses run on dedicated lanes, allowing them to bypass traffic congestion and arrive at their destinations on time. The BRT system has significantly reduced commuting time for many Lagosians, making it an essential component of the state’s transport infrastructure.
In addition to the BRT system, Lagos State has invested heavily in other modes of transportation, including water transportation, rail transportation, and road infrastructure.
Lagos also has an extensive network of roads that connect the city to neighbouring states, making it easy for people to travel within and outside the state. The state is also home to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in Africa and serves as a major hub for air travel in the region.
Furthermore, the Lagos State government has introduced several initiatives aimed at improving the efficiency of the state’s transport system, including the Lagos Traffic Radio station, which provides traffic updates to commuters, and the Lagos Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), which helps to manage traffic flow on the state’s roads.
Conclusion
Apparently, Lagos is a city of bustle and hustle; a city with too many stories.
Lagos State is a fascinating and dynamic place with a rich history, diverse culture, and a promising future. From its bustling markets and vibrant nightlife to its beautiful beaches and iconic landmarks, there is no shortage of things to discover and explore in this unique state.
We hope that these 10 interesting facts about Lagos State have given you a glimpse into the many facets of this incredible place. You should pay a visit after this – if you haven’t – though.