Lagos State, Nigeria: A Complete Guide to the Centre of Excellence

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to experience the hustle and bustle of Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital?

Growing up in Taraba State, Lagos seemed like an unattainable dream.

It was the state we saw in Nollywood movies - the land where musicians, actors, and celebrities lived their best lives.

To us, Lagos was Nigeria’s version of Hollywood, the centre of opportunities, and a place where dreams came true.

But my perspective changed in 2017 when I was fortunate to travel to the western part of Nigeria.

Along the way, I visited Lagos for work, and what I saw blew my mind.

The traffic, the densely populated areas, and the towering buildings were nothing like the spacious environment I was used to back home in Taraba.

Now, let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about Lagos State, Nigeria’s economic powerhouse and cultural hub.

History of Lagos State, Nigeria

Lagos was originally inhabited by the Awori people, a subgroup of the Yoruba.

It was known as Eko, which means “war camp,” and later renamed Lagos by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century.

The British annexed Lagos in 1861, making it a crown colony.

Over time, Lagos grew to become the administrative and economic centre of Nigeria.

It served as the country’s capital until 1991, when Abuja took over.

Despite this, Lagos remains Nigeria’s busiest and most important city.

Geography of Lagos, Nigeria

Location: Southwestern Nigeria, bordered by Ogun State to the north and east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.

Land Area: Approximately 3,577 square kilometers.

Climate: Lagos has a tropical wet and dry climate, with heavy rainfall from April to October and a dry season from November to March.

Administrative Divisions in Lagos State, Nigeria

Lagos State is divided into 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and five administrative divisions:

1. Ikeja

2. Badagry

3. Ikorodu

4. Lagos Island

5. Epe

These areas are further categorized into Mainland and Island zones, with distinct characteristics.

Areas in Lagos State

Mainland Areas:

Ikeja: The state capital, home to government offices, malls, and GRA (Government Reserved Areas).

Yaba: A hub for tech startups and education.

Surulere: Known for its residential areas and sports facilities.

Island Areas:

Victoria Island (VI): The commercial and financial hub, filled with luxury hotels and skyscrapers.

Ikoyi: Home to the elite, with high-end apartments and embassies.

Lekki: Known for its beaches, estates, and nightlife.

Life in Lagos State Nigeria (the Nightlife Domain of Nigeria)

Living in Lagos is an experience like no other. The city has something for everyone:

Job Opportunities: From corporate roles to informal trade, Lagos is a land of opportunities.

Diversity: Lagos is home to people from all over Nigeria, making it a cultural melting pot.

Energy: Lagos never sleeps. It’s a fast-paced city where hustle is the order of the day.

However, Lagos comes with its challenges, like traffic congestion and a high cost of living, but the opportunities often outweigh the drawbacks.

Cost of Living in Lagos, Nigeria

Lagos is one of the most expensive places to live in Nigeria, but it offers a range of options depending on your budget:

Rent: ₦800,000–₦10,000,000 annually for a one-bedroom apartment on the Island.

Cheaper options exist on the Mainland.

Food: Local meals cost ₦500–₦1,500, while continental dishes can go for ₦3,000–₦8,000.

Transportation: A bus ride costs ₦100–₦300, while taxis or ride-hailing services like Bolt and Uber can charge ₦1,500–₦5,000.

Popular Restaurants in Lagos

Lagos offers an exciting culinary scene:

The Place: Known for local and continental dishes.

Yellow Chilli: Offers a modern twist to Nigerian cuisine.

Hard Rock Café: Ideal for international meals and live music.

Ocean Basket: A seafood lover’s paradise.

Popular Hotels in Lagos

If you’re visiting Lagos, here are some top hotels:

Eko Hotel and Suites: Perfect for luxury stays.

Radisson Blu Anchorage: Offers breathtaking views of the Lagos Lagoon.

Lagos Continental Hotel: Known for its high-rise luxury.

Protea Hotel by Marriott: An affordable yet classy option.

Popular Places to Visit in Lagos

Beaches:

Elegushi Beach: Vibrant and lively.

Tarkwa Bay: Accessible by boat, perfect for relaxation.

Oniru Beach: Offers a quieter experience.

Historical Sites to Visit in Lag:

National Museum Lagos: Showcases Nigeria’s rich history and artifacts.

Freedom Park: A former colonial prison turned cultural center.

Popular Lagos Markets:

Balogun Market: A shopping haven for textiles and fabrics.

Lekki Arts and Crafts Market: Great for souvenirs and handmade items.

Facts About Lagos State, Nigeria

1. Most Populous City in Nigeria: Over 20 million residents.

2. Economic Powerhouse: Contributes over 30% of Nigeria’s GDP.

3. Traffic Congestion: Lagos is infamous for its gridlocks.

4. Lagosians’ Hustle Spirit: The residents are known for their resilience and entrepreneurial mindset.

Notable Leaders in Lagos’ History

Babatunde Fashola (2007–2015): Known for infrastructural development.

Akinwunmi Ambode (2015–2019): Focused on urban renewal.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu (2019–Present): Continues to drive modernization efforts.

The Lagos Lagoon and Atlantic Ocean

Lagos is surrounded by water bodies, making it a city with stunning views and a thriving aquatic culture.

The Lagos Lagoon connects to the Atlantic Ocean, offering economic opportunities like fishing, tourism, and shipping.

Close or Neighboring States

Lagos is bordered by:

Ogun State: Known for its industrial base.

Ondo State: Famous for its rich cultural heritage.

Mineral Resources in Lagos

Despite being an urban center, Lagos has:

• Bitumen

• Silica Sand

• Clay

Languages Spoken in Lagos, Nigeria

Yoruba: The most widely spoken language.

English: The official language.

Pidgin English: Common among the locals.

Other Nigerian languages like Igbo and Hausa are also prevalent.

Conclusion - Come and See Nigeria with IbiFoundry

Lagos is the heartbeat of Nigeria.

From its towering skyscrapers and vibrant nightlife to its bustling markets and beaches, the city is a blend of chaos and charm.

It’s a place where dreams are made, and opportunities abound - if you’re willing to hustle.

Whether you’re planning to visit, live, or invest in Lagos, one thing is certain: you’ll never forget the experience.

Pro Tip: If you’re new to Lagos, avoid peak traffic hours and explore both the Mainland and Island for a full Lagos experience.

Until next time,

Simon Taki Zaku,

Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng

For IbiFoundry.com.ng/blog