Lagos State

{{Main|History of Lagos}}

Before the Portuguese name of Lagos had been adopted, Lagos' initial name was Eko which referred mainly to the Island. The first to settle in Eko were the Aworis. Trade later drew various groups to the island, including the Portuguese in the 16th century. {{cite book |title=History of Nigeria, Lagos and Benin |author=Sir Alan Burns |date=1929 |publisher=Taylor & Francis |isbn=978-1-000-85681-1 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=MB-yEAAAQBAJ&pg=PT33}}{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=fwc5AAAAIAAJ&pg=PA15|title=The Yoruba Today |author=Jeremy Seymour Eades|publisher=Cambridge University Press (Changing Culture Series)|page=15|year= 1980|isbn=9780521226561}} The Awori hunters and fishermen had originally come from Ile-Ife to the coast.{{cite web|url=http://www.ngex.com/nigeria/places/states/lagos.htm |title=Lagos State, Nigeria |access-date=2014-03-29}}{{cite web|url=http://www.lagosstate.gov.ng/pagelinks.php?p=8|title=History of Lagos State|access-date=2014-03-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140209151402/http://www.lagosstate.gov.ng/pagelinks.php?p=8|archive-date=9 February 2014|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}

It was in 1760 that the name Lagos was adopted by the Portuguese. Naming it after a city in Southern Portugal which was used as port for slave trade.{{Cite web |title=The transatlantic slave trade |url=https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/history-of-slavery/transatlantic-slave-trade |access-date=2022-07-25 |website=National Museums Liverpool}}

{{Main|Reduction of Lagos}}

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In late 1851, the British Royal Navy bombarded Lagos (in present-day Nigeria) in the "Reduction of Lagos." The attack aimed to suppress the Atlantic slave trade, which had thrived in Lagos since the arrival of the Portuguese. The British sought to depose Oba Kosoko, who resisted efforts to end the trade. After Kosoko fled, the British installed Oba Akitoye, a more cooperative ruler aligned with their anti-slavery efforts. In 1861, Oba Docemo was the one who signed the treaty making Lagos a British colony.{{Cite web |date=2010-07-06 |title=Lagos, Nigeria (ca. 1350- ) • |url=https://www.blackpast.org/global-african-history/places-global-african-history/lagos-nigeria-c-1350/ |access-date=2022-07-25 |language=en-US}}

{{See also|Lagos Colony|Southern Nigeria Protectorate|Colonial Nigeria}}

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The Lagos Colony was established in 1861 when the British annexed Lagos, primarily to suppress the transatlantic slave trade and establish a base for expanding British commercial and political influence in West Africa. Strategically located along the Atlantic coast, Lagos quickly became a major center for trade, particularly in palm oil, cocoa, and cotton, which were in high demand in Europe during the Industrial Revolution. Its deep natural harbor made it an essential port for British shipping and trade routes. Economically, Lagos became a gateway for exporting goods and importing British manufactured products, boosting colonial revenues and strengthening British dominance in the region. Politically, Lagos served as the administrative and military base for British expansion into the Nigerian interior, facilitating the broader colonization of Nigeria through treaties, military campaigns, and indirect rule. The infrastructure and institutions established in Lagos during the colonial period laid the foundation for modern Nigeria’s economic and political systems.

Lagos State was created on 27 May 1967 according to the State Creation and Transitional Provisions Decree No. 14 of 1967,{{Cite web|title=Lagos, Nigeria (1960 - 1970)|url=https://www.crwflags.com/fotw/flags/ng-la.html|website=www.crwflags.com|access-date=2020-05-30}} which restructured Nigeria into a federation of 12 states.{{cite web | url=http://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng/information/details/Lagos | title=Lagos State Information | publisher=National Bureau of Statistics | access-date=25 October 2015 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151109140122/http://nigerianstat.gov.ng/information/details/Lagos | archive-date=9 November 2015 }}{{Cite web |title=About Lagos |url=https://lagosstate.gov.ng/about-lagos/ |access-date=2023-01-12 |website=Lagos State Government |language=en-US}} Before the issuance of this Decree, Lagos city, which was the country's capital had been administered directly by the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Lagos Affairs. However, Ikeja, Agege, Mushin, Ikorodu, Epe, Surulere, and Badagry were administered by the then Western Region Government. Lagos, the city, along with these other towns were captured to create the state of Lagos, with the state becoming fully recognized as a semi-autonomous{{Cite web |title=Semiautonomous Definitions {{!}} What does semiautonomous mean? {{!}} Best 4 Definitions of Semiautonomous |url=https://www.yourdictionary.com/semiautonomous |access-date=2022-07-25 |website=www.yourdictionary.com}} administrative division on 11 April 1968. Lagos served the dual role of being the State and Federal Capital until 1976 when the capital of the state was moved to Ikeja. After the full establishment of the Federal Capital Territory, based on the recommendation of the Akinola Àgùdà–led committee set up by General Murtala Muhammed to review the need for a new capital for Nigeria in 1975. The seat of the Federal Government was formally relocated to Abuja on 12 December 1991.{{Cite web |last=Ogbuenyi |first=Nosike |date=2022-02-03 |title=Abuja at 46: The Dreams, Strides, Challenges |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/features-and-interviews/509441-abuja-at-46-the-dreams-strides-challenges.html |access-date=2022-07-25 |website=Premium Times Nigeria |language=en-GB}} Nevertheless, Lagos remains the financial centre of the country, and even grew to become the most populous city in the state and the country.

{{Main|2002 Lagos armoury explosion}}

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The 2002 Ikeja Armoury Explosion occurred on January 27, 2002, when a series of explosions took place at the Ikeja Cantonment in Lagos, Nigeria. The blast, believed to have been caused by the improper storage of explosives and ammunition, led to a massive fire that spread throughout the area. It resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 people and displaced thousands more as buildings were destroyed and debris scattered across neighboring communities. The explosion also caused significant damage to properties and triggered widespread panic in Lagos.

{{Main|2012 Nigeria floods}}

In the 2012 Nigerian floods, Lagos was heavily affected, with large areas submerged, displacing thousands of people, damaging infrastructure, and highlighting the vulnerability of the state to climate-induced disasters. Lagos is a coastal state with a vast lagoon, making it highly susceptible to flooding, especially during heavy rainfall. The city occasionally experiences severe floods, which have worsened due to poor drainage systems and urbanization. Rising sea levels pose a significant threat, with climate change increasing the risk of devastating floods that could wipe out parts of the city.

{{See also|COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria|End SARS}}

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The first confirmed case in Nigeria was announced on 27 February 2020, when an Italian national in Lagos tested positive for the virus.{{cite web |url=https://ncdc.gov.ng/news/227/first-case-of-corona-virus-disease-confirmed-in-nigeria |title=FIRST CASE OF CORONA VIRUS DISEASE CONFIRMED IN NIGERIA |date=28 February 2020 |publisher=Nigeria Centre for Disease Control |access-date=10 March 2020}}{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/02/28/world/africa/nigeria-coronavirus.html |title=Nigeria Responds to First Coronavirus Case in Sub-Saharan Africa |date=28 February 2020 |last1=Maclean |first1=Ruth| last2=Dahir |first2=Abdi Latif |work=The New York Times |access-date=10 March 2020}} On 9 March 2020, a second case of the virus was reported in Ewekoro, Ogun State, a Nigerian citizen who came into contact with the Italian national.{{cite web |url=https://www.pmnewsnigeria.com/2020/03/09/breaking-nigeria-records-second-case-of-coronavirus|title=Nigeria records second case of Coronavirus|date=9 March 2020|website=P.M. News|access-date=10 March 2020}}{{Cite web |date=2020-03-09 |title=UPDATED: Coronavirus: Second case confirmed in Nigeria |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/health/health-news/380886-updated-coronavirus-second-case-confirmed-in-nigeria.html |access-date=2022-04-22 |language=en-GB}}

The End SARS protest in Lagos State was a nationwide movement in October 2020 aimed at ending police brutality, specifically targeting the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a notorious unit known for its abuse of power. In Lagos, the protests were largely peaceful but escalated on October 20, when the Lekki Toll Gate shooting occurred, where security forces fired on unarmed protester. The incident led to widespread outrage, both locally and internationally. The protests resulted in significant social and political impact, raising awareness about police violence and leading to calls for police reforms. However, the violence and destruction that followed caused extensive damage to businesses, infrastructure, and lives, leaving a lasting scar on the state’s economy and social fabric.

{{Main|Lagos}}

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Lagos is the most populous city in Lagos State, Nigeria as a whole, and the continent of Africa. The conurbation is one of the most populous in the world.As of 2015 the entire population of Lagos state was approximated to 16 million.[http://www.citymayors.com/statistics/urban_growth1.html World's fastest growing cities and urban areas from 2006 to 2020], by CityMayors.com{{cite web|url=http://www.lagosstate.gov.ng/pagelinks.php?p=6 |publisher=Lagos State Government |title=Population |year=2011 |access-date=3 November 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151018094514/http://www.lagosstate.gov.ng/pagelinks.php?p=6 |archive-date=18 October 2015 }} Lagos is a port which originated on islands separated by creeks, such as Lagos Island, fringing the southwest mouth of Lagos Lagoon while protected from the Atlantic Ocean by barrier islands and long sand spits such as Bar Beach, which stretch up to {{convert|100|km|0|abbr=off}} east and west of the mouth. The metropolitan area of Lagos includes Ikeja (which is the capital of Lagos State) and Agege and Mushin.

{{Main|Ikeja}}

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Ikeja is the state capital of Lagos State. Ikeja is a planned residential and commercial town with shopping malls, pharmacies and government reserved areas. The Murtala Mohammed International Airport is in Ikeja. Ikeja is also home to Fela Kuti's African Shrine,{{Cite web|url=https://theculturetrip.com/africa/nigeria/articles/fela-kuti-and-the-new-afrika-shrine/|title=Fela Kuti and The New Afrika Shrine|first=Lize|last=Okoh|date=3 September 2018|website=Culture Trip}} Late Chief Gani Fawehinmi house and Lagbaja's Motherland. It also has the largest shopping center on the mainland.{{Cite web |date=2020-12-04 |title=Here Are The Top 5 Largest Shopping Malls On Lagos Island » Propertydome |url=https://propertydome.com/top-5-shopping-malls-on-lagos-island/ |access-date=2022-07-19 |language=en-US}}

{{Main|Lekki}}

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Lekki is a city in the south eastern part of the state. It is a naturally formed peninsula, it is still largely under construction. As of 2015, only phase 1 of the project had been completed, with phase 2 nearing completion. The peninsula is approximately 70 to 80 km long, with an average width of 10 km. Lekki currently houses several estates, gated residential developments, agricultural farmlands, areas allocated for a Free Trade Zone, an airport, and a sea port under construction. The proposed land use master plan for the Lekki envisages the Peninsula as a "Blue-Green Environment City",{{cite web | url=http://www.lagosstate.gov.ng/pagelinks.php?p=19 | title=Lekki Master Plan | publisher=Lagos State Government | access-date=15 December 2015 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151018091652/http://www.lagosstate.gov.ng/pagelinks.php?p=19 | archive-date=18 October 2015 }} expected to accommodate over 3.4 million residential population and an additional non-residential population of at least 1.9 million.{{cite web | url=http://allafrica.com/stories/201507060955.html | title=Nigeria: Development Plan Dismisses Threats to Lekki/Victoria Island's Real Estate Prospects | publisher=allafrica.com | date=6 July 2015 | access-date=15 December 2015}}

{{Main|Ikorodu}}

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Ikorodu is a city located north-east of the state along the Lagos Lagoon. It shares a boundary with Ogun State. As of the 2006 Census, Ikorodu boosted population of about 535,619.{{cite web | title = NigeriaCongress.org | url = http://www.nigeriacongress.org/FGN/administrative/lgadetails.asp?lg=Ikorodu | access-date = 2007-04-08 | url-status = usurped | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20040109172351/http://www.nigeriacongress.org/fgn/administrative/lgadetails.asp?lg=Ikorodu | archive-date = 2004-01-09 }} It is the third largest city in the south-west after Ibadan and Lagos while it is the 12th largest city in Nigeria.{{Cite web |date=2022-09-14 |title=As Ikorodu becomes Nigeria's 12th largest city |url=https://guardian.ng/opinion/as-ikorodu-becomes-nigerias-12th-largest-city/ |access-date=2022-10-15 |website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News |language=en-US}} In 2022, it had an estimated population of 1,041,066. The population of the city currently grows at 5.26% annually, and it is projected to reach 1.7 million by 2035.

{{Main|Eko Atlantic}}

Eko Atlantic is a planned city being constructed on land reclaimed from the Atlantic Ocean.{{cite news |first= Deji |last=Elumoye |title=Eko Atlantic city Underway |url=http://allafrica.com/stories/200709260377.html |work= Thisday (via allAfrica.com) |publisher=AllAfrica Global Media |date=2007-09-26 |access-date=2008-02-04 }} It is located on the former Lagos' Bar Beach. Upon completion, the new island which is still under development is anticipating at least 250,000 residents and a daily flow of at least 150,000 commuters. The development will also have a positive environmental impact; its purpose is to stop the erosion of the Lagos coastline.{{cite news |first=Akinpelu |last=Dada |title=Construction work on Eko Atlantic city to commence soon |url=http://www.punchng.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art20090518128280 |work=The Punch |date=2009-05-18 |access-date=2009-05-21 }}{{dead link|date=December 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} The Eko Atlantic City project received global recognition in 2009, as the Lagos State government and its private sector partners on the Project, South Energyx, received the Clinton Global Initiative Commitment Certificate.{{cite news|url=http://allafrica.com/stories/200909290203.html|title=Fashola Receives Clinton Award For Eko Atlantic City|date=29 September 2009|work=AllAfrica.com|publisher=ThisDay|access-date=11 October 2012}}{{cite news|url=http://sundaytrust.com.ng/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5569:a-fairy-tale-dream-home-for-the-super-rich-a-fairy-tale-dream-home-for-the-super-rich&catid=44:feature&Itemid=135 |title=A Fairy Tale, Dream Home for the Super-Rich |last=Akinola |first=Femi |date=19 December 2010 |work=Sunday Trust |access-date=11 October 2012 |location=Abuja, Nigeria |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131212131334/http://sundaytrust.com.ng/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5569%3Aa-fairy-tale-dream-home-for-the-super-rich-a-fairy-tale-dream-home-for-the-super-rich&catid=44%3Afeature&Itemid=135 |archive-date=12 December 2013 }}{{cite news|url=http://nationalmirroronline.net/index.php/business/real-estate/29723.html|title=Projects that will shape real estate sector in 2012|last=Ayeyemi|first=Dayo|date=24 January 2012|work=National Mirror|access-date=11 October 2012|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130221220400/http://nationalmirroronline.net/index.php/business/real-estate/29723.html|archive-date=21 February 2013}}

{{Main|Badagry}}

Badagry is a coastal town in the state. It is situated between Metropolitan Lagos, and the border of the Republic of Benin at Seme. As of the preliminary 2006 census results, the municipality had a population of 241,093.[http://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng/Connections/Pop2006.pdf Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070704042011/http://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng/Connections/Pop2006.pdf |date=2007-07-04 }}, published 15 May 2007, accessed 8 July 2007

The area is led by a traditional king, Akran De Wheno Aholu Menu – Toyi 1,{{Cite book|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/416571857|title=Badagry: past and present : Oba De Wheno-Aholu-Menu-Toyi 1. Akran of Badagry, reign of peace|first1=Tijani|last1=Ibrahim|first2=Babatope O|last2=Ojo|date=8 October 1992|publisher=Ibro Communications|oclc=416571857|via=Open WorldCat}} who is also the permanent vice-chairman of obas and chiefs in Lagos State. It is known to hold the country's oldest storey building.

Badagry is home to the Ewe and Egun people who are predominantly fishermen.

{{Main|Epe, Lagos State}}

Epe is a town located on the north side of the Lekki Lagoon. It is popular for the fishing activities attributed to the city. Per the 2006 Census the population of Epe was 181,409.{{cite web | title = NigeriaCongress.org | url = http://www.nigeriacongress.org/FGN/administrative/lgadetails.asp?lg=Epe | access-date = 2007-04-08 | url-status = usurped | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20040103143148/http://www.nigeriacongress.org/fgn/administrative/lgadetails.asp?lg=Epe | archive-date = 2004-01-03 }}

Epe is widely regarded as Lagos's fishing capital. Fishing is the main occupation of the people here, so it is no surprise that a sculpture of two giant fishes, erected at the Lekki-Epe T-Junction, welcomes you to Epe. The Epe Fish Market is regarded as Lagos's largest seafood market.{{citation needed|date=December 2022}}

Epe town is well-known for its tranquilly. Aside from the adventure, sightseeing, and serenity, you also have access to low-cost animal protein.{{citation needed|date=December 2022}}

Epe, like any other society, has special occasions and festivals where people come together to celebrate. Epe residents celebrate various festivals such as the Kayo-kayo festival,{{Cite web |last1=Abiaziem |first1=Chinyere |last2=Telegraph |first2=New |date=2022-09-25 |title=Epe aglow for Kayokayo festival, as Kosoko tasks youth to preserve culture - New Telegraph |url=https://newtelegraphng.com/epe-aglow-for-kayokayo-festival-as-kosoko-tasks-youth-to-preserve-culture/,%20https://newtelegraphng.com/epe-aglow-for-kayokayo-festival-as-kosoko-tasks-youth-to-preserve-culture/ |access-date=2024-06-27 |website=newtelegraphng.com |language=en-US}} the Ebi bi festival, Ojude-Oba,{{Cite web |last=Chima |first=Naomi |date=2024-06-22 |title=When Ijebu-Ode stood still for Ojude Oba festival |url=https://punchng.com/when-ijebu-ode-stood-still-for-ojude-oba-festival/ |access-date=2024-06-27 |website=Punch Newspapers |language=en-US}} and the Epe day.{{citation needed|date=December 2022}}

Some campuses of popular higher education institutions in Lagos can be found within Epe. Lagos State University (LASU),{{Cite web |title=Lagos State University - About LASU |url=https://lasu.edu.ng/home/pages/?id=about |access-date=2024-06-27 |website=lasu.edu.ng}} Pan-Atlantic University (PAU),{{Cite web |date=2015-07-01 |title=History of PAU - Pan-Atlantic University |url=https://pau.edu.ng/about-pau/history/ |access-date=2024-06-27 |language=en-US}} Yaba College of Technology,{{Cite web |title=Vision and Mission {{!}} Yaba College of Technology Lagos Nigeria |url=http://yabatech.edu.ng/vision.php |access-date=2024-06-27 |website=yabatech.edu.ng}} and Michael Otedola College of Primary Education are among them (MOCOPED).{{citation needed|date=December 2022}}

Epe is also the birthplace of notable individuals such as former Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and Nigerian businessman Femi Otedola.

{{Main|Ojo, Lagos State}}

Ojo is a town mainly occupied by the Aworis with a population of 507,693.{{cite web | title = NigeriaCongress.org | url = http://www.nigeriacongress.org/FGN/administrative/lgadetails.asp?lg=Ojo | access-date = 2007-04-08 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20040125193004/http://www.nigeriacongress.org/fgn/administrative/lgadetails.asp?lg=Ojo | archive-date = 25 January 2004 | url-status = usurped | df = dmy-all }} Lagos State University is in this town.

Lagos State, with a Gross domestic product (GDP) in 2025 estimated to be over US$250 billion,{{cite web | url=https://nairametrics.com/2025/03/12/lagos-gdp-hits-259-billion-ranks-as-africas-second-largest-city-economy/ | title=Lagos GDP hits $259 billion, ranks as Africa’s second-largest city economy| publisher=NairaMetrics.com | date=12 March 2025 | access-date=16 March 2025}} is the major economic centre of Nigeria. The state's dynamic economy, driven by its bustling port, thriving tech scene, and a robust manufacturing sector, is continuously expanding, positioning Lagos as a significant global economic hub. If Lagos were an independent nation, it would rank among the top 30 economies globally and it would be the fifth largest economy in Africa.

Lagos State houses headquarters of most conglomerates and commercial banks in Nigeria.{{Cite web|title=Lagos State Economy|url=https://lagosstate.gov.ng/about-lagos/#:~:text=LAGOS%20STATE%20ECONOMY&text=Lagos%20is%20also%20Nigeria%27s%20financial,Nigerian%20Stock%20Exchange%20%5BNSE%5D.|access-date=2021-08-31|website=}} The state has the lowest incidence of extreme poverty (around 1.3% of the population against a national average of 31%) of all states in Nigeria, according to World Bank data from 2018.{{Cite web |title=Geospatial Poverty Portal: Interactive Maps |url=https://pipmaps.worldbank.org/en/data/datatopics/poverty-portal/poverty-interactivemap |access-date=2024-01-22 |website=World Bank |language=en}} Despite that, slums and poverty are a major issue in the Lagos area.

Its total generated revenue in 2017 was around ₦334 billion (equivalent to US$920 million), growing by 10.43% compared to 2016.{{cite web|title=Internally Generated Revenue At State Level 2017|publisher=National Bureau of Statistics|url=http://nigerianstat.gov.ng/elibrary?queries[search]=revenue}} By the first half of 2021, the State's internally generated revenue (IGR) alone stood at over ₦267 billion.{{Cite web |title=Reports {{!}} National Bureau of Statistics |url=https://nigerianstat.gov.ng/elibrary/read/1241089 |access-date=2022-10-05 |website=nigerianstat.gov.ng}}

As the commercial capital of Nigeria, Lagos plays a central role in shaping the nation's financial and industrial landscapes. If Lagos were an independent nation, it would rank among the top 30 economies globally. The state's dynamic economy, driven by its bustling port, thriving tech scene, and a robust manufacturing sector, is continuously expanding, positioning Lagos as a significant global economic hub.

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Lagos is often referred to as the financial capital of West Africa, anchored by Victoria Island and Ikoyi, areas that house numerous multinational corporations, banks, and investment firms. The city is home to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), one of Africa's largest, and serves as the heartbeat of trade and investment for the continent. With a thriving banking sector, a rapidly growing tech ecosystem, and a wealth of entrepreneurial opportunities, Lagos has established itself as the most Important financial cities not just of Nigeria but of Africa. The state's economic importance cannot be overstated, as it consistently drives a large portion of the nation's economic output and foreign investments.

Lagos is the Silicon Valley of Africa, home to a growing tech ecosystem known as “Tech Lagos.” The city is a hotspot for tech startups, fintech companies, and venture capital investments, drawing international tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft to establish regional offices. The state's government actively supports this growth with initiatives aimed at promoting digital entrepreneurship and technological innovation. Lagos boasts a thriving tech scene in Yaba, a district also known as “Silicon Lagoon,” where many startups are creating cutting-edge solutions that are transforming industries across Africa. With Calm incubators, co-working spaces, and a vibrant community of tech entrepreneurs, Lagos is fast becoming a key player in the global tech arena.

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Lagos is the cultural heart of Nigeria and one of the leading media and entertainment capitals of the world. The city is the epicenter of Nollywood, Africa's booming film industry, which produces thousands of films annually, contributing significantly to the economy. Lagos is also home to some of the continent's most iconic music acts, with genres like Afrobeats gaining global popularity. The state's vibrant arts scene, alongside world-class fashion, design, and digital media industries, establishes Lagos as a creative hub, fueling the cultural economy and shaping global trends. The Lagos Fashion Week and numerous music festivals attract international attention, making Lagos a global leader in entertainment and media.

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Lagos, with its vast coastal stretch, is strategically positioned as a gateway for international trade. The Port of Lagos, Africa's largest and busiest port, plays a crucial role in facilitating the movement of goods across the continent and beyond. Lagos' agriculture sector is also vibrant, producing significant quantities of cassava, yams, coconut, and palm oil. The state is a major exporter of these products to global markets, further cementing its role as an economic leader in Africa. With a growing focus on agribusiness and sustainable farming, Lagos is increasing its agricultural exports while also ensuring that its agricultural practices meet the demands of both local and international markets.

As the largest economy in Nigeria, Lagos is making significant strides in advancing its energy sector. The state is investing in sustainable energy solutions, with growing initiatives in solar power, wind energy, and bioenergy. The Lagos State government has also committed to reducing carbon emissions and promoting green energy solutions. With access to abundant natural resources, Lagos is aiming to become a global leader in renewable energy and a model for sustainable development in Africa.

Lekki Free Trade Zone (Lekki FTZ) is a free zone situated at the eastern part of Lekki, which covers a total area of about 155 square kilometres. The first phase of the zone has an area of 30 square kilometres, with about 27 square kilometres for urban construction purposes, which would accommodate a total resident population of 120,000. According to the Master Plan, the free zone will be developed into a new modern city within a city with integration of industries, commerce and business, real estate development, warehousing and logistics, tourism, and entertainment.{{cite web|title=Plans of Lekki Free Trade Zone ( Lekki FTZ)|url=http://en.calekki.com/ghjs_detail/newsId=337.html|access-date=15 December 2015|publisher=China-Africa Lekki Investment Ltd.|archive-date=22 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222131348/http://en.calekki.com/ghjs_detail/newsId=337.html|url-status=dead}}

The following mineral resources are found in Lagos State:{{Cite web|title=Natural Resources – Welcome To The Embassy of Nigeria|url=https://nigerianembassythehague.nl/about-nigeria/natural-resources/|access-date=2021-12-19|language=en-US}}

• Clay{{Cite web |last=Atulegwu |first=David |date=2020-09-08 |title=List of Natural Mineral Resources Found in Lagos State |url=https://nigerianinfopedia.com.ng/natural-mineral-resources-found-in-lagos-state/ |access-date=2022-03-21 |website=Nigerian Infopedia |language=en-US}}
• Bitumen
• Glass Sand
• Crude Oil

Lagos State’s water boundaries are defined by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and the Lagos Lagoon to the east. The state is also intersected by several rivers and creeks, including the Ogun River, which drains into the Lagoon. Major coastal areas include Victoria Island, Lekki, and Epe. Lagos’ strategic location along the Atlantic Ocean has made it a critical point for trade and commerce, with the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port serving as Nigeria’s busiest shipping hubs.

Under the Köppen climate classification, Lagos State has a tropical monsoon climate (Am), characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season lasts from April to October, with an annual average rainfall of 1,800 to 2,000 mm. Humidity levels remain high throughout the year.

• Dry Season: November to March, characterized by harmattan winds, which bring dry and dusty air from the Sahara Desert.
• Rainy Season: Heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms from April to October.

Average daytime temperatures range between 28°C to 34°C (82°F to 93°F). The highest recorded temperature in Lagos was 38°C (100°F), while the lowest was 21°C (70°F).

Lagos has a Tropical wet and dry or savanna climate. The city's yearly temperature is 28.67 °C (83.61 °F) and it is -0.79% lower than Nigeria's averages. Lagos typically receives about 132.01 millimeters (5.2 inches) of precipitation and has 193.63 rainy days (53.05% of the time) annually.{{Cite web |title=Lagos, NG Climate Zone, Monthly Weather Averages and Historical Data |url=https://tcktcktck.org/nigeria/lagos |access-date=2023-06-30 |website=tcktcktck.org}}

Lagos State is characterized by a complex network of lagoons, creeks, and rivers. The Lagos Lagoon serves as the main drainage basin for the state, connected to the Atlantic Ocean through the Commodore Channel. The Ogun River, which originates in Ogun State, flows southward into Lagos Lagoon. The Badagry Creek and the Five Cowrie Creek also contribute to the state's drainage system.

Flooding is a recurring challenge, particularly during the rainy season from April to October, as the low-lying topography and coastal location make Lagos vulnerable to waterlogging and storm surges.

• Water Pollution In Lagos, water contamination is a significant issue. Serious health concerns have been raised as a result of the unchecked discharge of raw sewage, sediment-carrying runoff, and effluents into the Lagoon system. People are suffering from deadly waterborne illnesses like cholera and diarrhea as a result. The number of Lagos inhabitants who have access to formal clean water is pitifully small, with most of them reliant on the unofficial sector made up of wells. Lagos has a tropical environment with over 2,000 millimeters of annual rainfall, is surrounded by water, however much of the water is unsafe to drink. The bulk of Lagos inhabitants rely on the unofficial sector, which consists of wells, boreholes, rivers, and rains, as there is very little access to formal clean water. The state's daily demand in 2016 was{{Cite web |title=Lagos Challenges |url=https://www.coolgeography.co.uk/gcsen/Lagos_Challenges.php#:~:text=Water%20pollution%20is%20a%20major,affecting%20people%20as%20a%20result. |access-date=2022-03-21 |website=www.coolgeography.co.uk}}
• Air pollution
• Waste
• Traffic congestion
• Noise pollution

Lagos State’s unique geography supports a wide range of ecosystems, including coastal wetlands, mangrove forests, and lowland tropical rainforests. Species such as mangroves, oil palms, coconut trees, and various species of tropical hardwoods are found in the region. The state’s wetlands are home to water plants like water hyacinth and reeds. Lagos’ diverse fauna includes species such as: African bush elephants, antelopes, and African civet cats. Nile crocodiles, monitor lizards, and pythons. The state is home to over 250 species of birds, including the African grey parrot, pied kingfisher, and hammerkop. The Lagos Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean support a variety of marine life, including tilapia, catfish, crabs, and prawns.

Urbanization and pollution have threatened several species, leading to conservation efforts within the state’s reserves and protected areas, such as the Lekki Conservation Centre.

Lagos State has several protected conservation areas aimed at preserving its unique biodiversity:

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• Lekki Conservation Centre: A 78-hectare reserve with the longest canopy walkway in Africa.
• Lufasi Nature Park: A sanctuary for endangered species and a center for environmental education.
• Omu Resort: A wildlife and amusement park featuring a zoo, aquarium, and other attractions.

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Landmarks and Attractions include;

• First Storey Building in Nigeria: Built in 1845 in Badagry.
• Slave Route: Badagry was a major departure point for enslaved Africans during the transatlantic slave trade.
• National Museum: Houses artifacts, including the famous Festac Mask from the 1977 Festival of African Culture (FESTAC).
• National Theatre: A cultural and arts center in Iganmu.
• Third Mainland Bridge: At 11.8 km, it is the longest bridge in West Africa, connecting Lagos Island to the mainland.
• Nike Art Gallery: The largest art gallery in West Africa, showcasing Nigerian and African art.

Freedom Park: A former colonial-era prison turned into a cultural and recreational center.

File:4thbridgemap-eng.jpg

{{Main|Fourth Mainland Bridge}}

File:From-space3.jpg

The Fourth Mainland Bridge {{Cite web |last=Ubanagu |first=Makua |date=2024-01-27 |title=Fourth Mainland Bridge, things to know |url=https://punchng.com/10-things-to-know-about-proposed-fourth-mainland-bridge/ |access-date=2024-06-27 |website=Punch Newspapers |language=en-US}} is a 38 km long bridge project by the Lagos State Government, connecting Lagos Island by way of Langbasa(Lekki) and Baiyeku(Ikorodu) across the Lagos Lagoon to Itamaga, in Ikorodu.{{Cite news|last=NAN|date=22 January 2020|title=Lagos assembly ll support delivery of fourth mainland bridge|work=Guardian Nigeria Newspaper|url=https://m.guardian.ng/news/lagos-assembly-ll-support-delivery-of-fourth-mainland-bridge|access-date=3 January 2021}} The bridge is a 2 x 4 lane carriageway cross-sectional road with permission for BRT Lane and future road contraction. It is expected to become the second longest bridge in Africa, featuring 3 toll plazas, 9 interchanges, 4.5 km Lagoon Bridge and an eco-friendly environment amongst other added features.{{Cite web|date=2020-09-29|title=800 houses for demolition as Lagos budgets $2.2b of 4th Mainland Bridge|url=https://editor.guardian.ng/news/800-houses-to-go-as-lagos-proposes-2-2b-for-4th-mainland-bridge/|access-date=2021-01-03|website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News|language=en-US}}

In April 2021 there were 6 bidders for the US$2.5 billion project. By December the preferred bidder would be known.{{Cite web|date=2021-04-28|title=Lagos says Fourth Mainland Bridge contract with funding ready in December 2021 - Nairametrics|url=https://nairametrics.com/2021/04/28/lagos-says-fourth-mainland-bridge-contract-with-funding-ready-in-december-2021/|access-date=2022-01-15|language=en-US}}

In January 2022 the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reiterated the plan by the state government to commence the construction on the Opebi-Mende link bridge and the 38-kilometre 4th mainland bridge: "Construction work on the 38km 4th Mainland Bridge — which will be the longest in Africa — and the Opebi-Mende link bridge will commence this year."{{Cite web|date=2022-01-03|title=Sanwo-Olu says Opebi-Mende link bridge, 4th mainland bridge projects to commence 2022 - Nairametrics|url=https://nairametrics.com/2022/01/03/sanwo-olu-says-opebi-mende-link-bridge-4th-mainland-bridge-projects-to-commence-2022/|access-date=2022-01-15|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|title=Lagos to begin construction of 4th Mainland Bridge 2022 - Sanwo-Olu - P.M. News|url=https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2022/01/03/lagos-to-begin-construction-of-4th-mainland-bridge-2022-sanwo-olu/|access-date=2022-01-15|language=en-US}}

{{Main|Transportation in Lagos}}

Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Ikeja is one of Nigeria's five major international airports. It was built in 1978 and named after the former military head of state Late General Murtala Mohammed.{{Cite web |title=Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos |url=https://www.airport-technology.com/projects/mutalamohammad/ |access-date=2020-05-30 |website=Airport Technology |language=en-GB}}

Lagos has also has the Lekki-Epe International Airport which is a proposed airport in Lekki, Nigeria, designed for a capacity of 5 million passengers annually.{{Cite web |title=Lekki-Epe International Airport New Airport Profile {{!}} CAPA |url=https://centreforaviation.com/data/profiles/newairports/lekki-epe-international-airport |access-date=2021-06-14 |website=centreforaviation.com}}

People can commute using by bus using the Lagos Bus Rapid Transit System, also known as Lagos BRT which is regulated by LAMATA.{{Cite news |last=Jen Ehidiamen |date=28 December 2015 |title=Public Transportation in Lagos State...#BRT |work=CP Africa |url=https://www.cp-africa.com/2010/12/28/public-transportation-lagos-state/ |access-date=15 June 2021}}

The Lagos State Rail Mass Transit is an urban rail system which started operation on the 4th of September 2023.{{Cite web |date=2016-12-01 |title=Lagos Blue Line rail begins operations September 4|url=https://punchng.com/lagos-blue-line-rail-begins-operations-september-4/}}{{Cite web |date=2021-02-25 |title=Lagos says red rail lines will be ready by December 2023|url=https://nairametrics.com/2023/09/04/lagos-says-redline-rail-is-95-ready-will-be-ready-by-end-of-2023/?amp=1|access-date=2021-06-14 |website=Nairametrics |language=en-GB}}

{{Main|Politics of Lagos State}}

Since its creation in 1967, the state has been administered either by a governor and a House of Assembly in civilian or quasi-civilian (under Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida's administration) federal administrations, or by Sole-Administrators or Military Administrators in military dispensations. Since December 2007, Yoruba has been the second official language of debate and discussion for the House of Assembly after English. The House of Assembly is headed by the Speaker, an elected position.

File:Babajide Sanwaolu 2019 00 26 20 984000.jpeg

The current governor of Lagos State is Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who emerged victorious for a second term in office in the March 11, 2023 Governorship elections.{{Cite web|title=Meet Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the new governor of Lagos State|url=https://www.theafricareport.com/10072/meet-babajide-sanwo-olu-the-new-governor-of-lagos-state/|date=2019-03-11|website=The Africa Report.com|language=en-US|access-date=2020-05-20}}{{Cite web|title=APC retains Lagos as INEC declares Babajide Sanwo-Olu Governor-elect|url=https://punchng.com/breaking-apc-retains-lagos-as-inec-declares-babajide-sanwo-olu-governor-elect/|website=Punch Newspapers|date=10 March 2019|language=en-US|access-date=2020-05-20}}

Babajide Sanwo-Olu was sworn in on May 29, 2023 for a second term in office, retaining him as the 6th democratic governor of Lagos State and the 15th governor of Lagos State overall.{{Cite web|date=2019-05-29|title=Sanwo-Olu sworn in as Lagos Governor|url=https://punchng.com/breaking-photos-sanwo-olu-sworn-in-as-lagos-governor/|access-date=2021-12-13|website=Punch Newspapers|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|title=SANWO-OLU SWORN-IN AS 15TH GOVERNOR OF LAGOS STATE|url=https://lagosstate.gov.ng/blog/2019/05/29/sanwo-olu-sworn-in-as-15th-governor-of-lagos-state/|access-date=2021-12-14|website=Lagos State Government|language=en-US}} On 18 May 2022, Lagos state government announced total ban on Okada in 6 local government areas of the state.{{Cite web |date=2022-05-18 |title=Lagos announces total ban on okada in six local governments |url=https://editor.guardian.ng/news/lagos-announces-total-ban-on-okada-in-six-local-governments/ |access-date=2022-05-18 |website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News |language=en-US}}

The State government is led by a democratically elected governor who works closely with members of the state's house of assembly. The Capital city of the State is Ikeja.{{Cite web |last=Oguntola |first=Tunde |date=2022-09-27 |title=2023: Next President, Govs Must Get Two-thirds Spread, Says INEC |url=https://leadership.ng/2023-next-president-govs-must-get-two-thirds-spread-says-inec/ |access-date=2023-02-23 |language=en-US}}

The electoral system of each state is selected using a modified two-round system. To be elected in the first round, a candidate must receive the plurality of the vote and over 25% of the vote in at least two -third of the State local government Areas. If no candidate passes threshold, a second round will be held between the top candidate and the next candidate to have received a plurality of votes in the highest number of local government areas.[https://leadership.ng/2023-next-president-govs-must-get-two-thirds-spread-says-inec/ Next President, Govs must get two thirds spread says INEC. The Leadership Newspaper.]

{{update section|date=June 2015}}

Lagos State is divided into five administrative divisions, which are further divided into 20 local government areas, or LGAs. They are:{{cite web| url=http://www.lagosstate.gov.ng/index.php?page=subpage&spid=12&mnu=null| title=Lagos State – Population| access-date=22 September 2011| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110615075626/http://www.lagosstate.gov.ng/index.php?page=subpage&spid=12&mnu=null| archive-date=15 June 2011| url-status=dead}}

The first 16 of the above LGAs comprise the statistical area of Metropolitan Lagos. The remaining four LGAs (Badagry, Ikorodu, Ibeju-Lekki and Epe) are within Lagos State but are not part of Metropolitan Lagos.

In 2003, many of the existing 20 LGAs were split for administrative purposes into Local Council Development Areas. These lower-tier administrative units now number 56: Agbado/Oke-Odo, Agboyi/Ketu, Agege, Ajeromi, Alimosho, Apapa, Apapa-Iganmu, Ayobo/Ipaja, Badagry West, Badagry, Bariga, Coker Aguda, Egbe Idimu, Ejigbo, Epe, Eredo, Eti-Osa East, Eti Osa West, Iba, Isolo, Imota, Ikoyi, Ibeju, Ifako-Ijaiye, Ifelodun, Igando/Ikotun, Igbogbo/Bayeku, Ijede, Ikeja, Ikorodu North, Ikorodu West, Ikosi Ejinrin, Ikorodu, Ikorodu West, Iru/Victoria Island, Itire Ikate, Kosofe, Lagos Island West, Lagos Island East, Lagos Mainland, Lekki, Mosan/Okunola, Mushin, Odi Olowo/Ojuwoye, Ojo, Ojodu, Ojokoro, Olorunda, Onigbongbo, Oriade, Orile Agege, Oshodi, Oto-Awori, Shomolu, Surulere and Yaba.{{cite web|url=http://www.lagosstate.gov.ng/index.php?page=ministrylist&mcat=lga&mtitle=Local+Government+Area&mnu=null|title=Local Government Areas|access-date=2010-03-20|archive-date=24 March 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100324015622/http://www.lagosstate.gov.ng/index.php?page=ministrylist&mcat=lga&mtitle=Local%20Government%20Area&mnu=null|url-status=dead}}

Below is a list of polling units, including villages and schools, organised by electoral ward.{{cite web|title=Polling Unit Locator Tool|publisher=Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)|location=Abuja, Nigeria|date=December 28, 2019|url=https://www.inecnigeria.org/elections/polling-units/|access-date=December 28, 2019|archive-date=27 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827213859/https://www.inecnigeria.org/elections/polling-units/|url-status=dead}}

• Anchor University{{Cite web |title=Home |url=https://aul.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-21 |website=Anchor University Lagos |language=en-US}}
• Augustine University Ilara, Epe{{Cite web |title=Augustine University Ilara Epe |url=https://augustineuniversity.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-21 |website=augustineuniversity.edu.ng}}
• Caleb University{{Cite web |title=Caleb University, Lagos, Nigeria |url=https://calebuniversity.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-21 |website=Caleb University |language=en-gb}}
• CETEP City University
• Lagos State University{{Cite web |title=Lagos State University - Home |url=https://lasu.edu.ng/home/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=lasu.edu.ng}} (including Lagos State University College of Medicine{{Cite web |title=lasucom.edu.ng – Pride of LASU |url=https://lasucom.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |language=en-US}})
• Lagos State University of Education{{Cite web |title=Adeniran Ogunsanya – College of Education |url=https://aocoed.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-21 |website=aocoed.edu.ng}}
• Lagos State University of Science and Technology{{Cite web |title=Lagos State Polytechnic |url=https://laspotech.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=laspotech.edu.ng |language=en}}
• National Open University of Nigeria, Lagos study centres{{Cite web|url=https://www.nounstudentportal.org/noun-study-centres-in-lagos-state/|title=National Open University Of Nigeria, Lagos Study Centres|date=1 September 2015|website=www.nounstudentportal.org}}
• Pan Atlantic University{{Cite web |title=Home - Pan-Atlantic University |url=https://pau.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |language=en-US}} (includung Lagos Business School{{Cite web |title=Home {{!}} Lagos Business School |url=https://www.lbs.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=Lagos Business School}})
• University of Lagos{{Cite web |title=Unilag Home |url=https://unilag.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=University of Lagos |language=en-US}}

• Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology{{Cite web |title=Welcome to FCFMT |url=https://fcfmt.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |language=en-US}}
• Lagos City Polytechnic{{Cite web |title=Courses – Lagos City Polytechnic |url=https://elearning.lagoscitypolytechnic.edu.ng/courses/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |language=en-US}}
• Lagos State College of Health Technology{{Cite web |title=Lagos State College of Health Technology |url=https://lascohet.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |language=en-US}}
• Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba{{Cite web |title=Nigerian Institute of Journalism courses, details and contact information - CoursesEye.com |url=https://www.courseseye.com/colleges-and-universities/436-nigerian-institute-of-journalism.aspx |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=www.courseseye.com |language=en}}
• Yaba College of Technology{{Cite web |last=Yabatech |title=Yaba College of Technology Lagos Nigeria |url=https://facebook.com/yabatech |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=facebook.com |language=en-gb}}

• Federal College of Education, Akoka{{Cite web |title=Welcome to FCET – Federal College of Education, AKoka |url=https://fcet-akoka.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-21 |language=en-US}}
• Michael Otedola College of Primary Education{{Cite web |date=2018-06-11 |title=Homepage - Michael Otedola College of Primary Education, MOCPED |url=https://mocped.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=Michael Otedola College of Primary Education -}}
• Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education upgraded in 2022 now Lagos State University of Education{{Cite web |title=Home {{!}} Lagos State University of Education, Otto/Ijanikin, Lagos State, Nigeria – LASUED |url=https://lasued.edu.ng/ |access-date=2022-08-04 |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2021-12-30 |title=Breaking: Lagos upgrades AOCOED to university of education |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/12/breaking-lagos-upgrades-aocoed-to-university-of-education/ |access-date=2022-08-04 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-GB}}

{{main|Tourist attractions in Lagos}}

Lagos State has over 700 km of Atlantic sandy beaches with about 20 between the west of Badagry and east of Lekki. Along with these, there are several tourist attractions. They include:

• Atlas Cove, Apapa{{Cite web |date=2019-02-27 |title=Atlas Cove: Navy at war with vandals |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2019/02/atlas-cove-navy-at-war-with-vandals/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-US}}
• Bar Beach, Victoria Island{{Cite web |title=Bar Beach Lagos State :: Nigeria Information & Guide |url=https://www.nigeriagalleria.com/Nigeria/States_Nigeria/Lagos/Bar-Beach-Lagos.html |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=www.nigeriagalleria.com}}
• Elegushi Beach{{Cite web |title=Elegushi Beach Lagos State :: Nigeria Information & Guide |url=https://www.nigeriagalleria.com/Nigeria/States_Nigeria/Lagos/Elegushi-Beach-Lagos.html |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=www.nigeriagalleria.com}}
• Tarkwa Bay Beach{{Cite web |last=travelwaka |date=2019-12-08 |title=Tarkwa Bay Beach - A beautiful Island off the Coast of Lagos |url=https://www.travelwaka.com/tarkwa-bay-beach-a-beautiful-island-off-the-coast-of-lagos/ |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=TravelWaka |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |last=Best Lagos |date=2023-06-24 |title=The Tarkwa Bay Beach: Full Guide And Review |url=https://bestlagos.ng/tarkwa-bay-beach-guide-review/ |access-date=2023-08-19 |website=BestLagos.ng |language=en-GB}}
• Topo Island, Badagry.{{Cite web|title=About Lagos|url=https://lagosstate.gov.ng/about-lagos/|access-date=2021-06-16|website=Lagos State Government|language=en-US}}
• King Ado statue, Lagos Island{{Cite web |title=king Ado Archives |url=https://tribuneonlineng.com/tag/king-ado/ |access-date=2022-08-04 |website=Tribune Online |language=en-GB}}
• Tafawa Balewa Square{{Cite web |title=Tafawa Balewa Square – Channels Television |url=https://www.channelstv.com/tag/tafawa-balewa-square/ |access-date=2022-08-04}}{{Cite web |last=@10times |title=Tafawa Balewa Square {{!}} 10times |url=https://10times.com/venues/tafawa-balewa-square-lagos |access-date=2022-08-04 |website=10times.com |language=en}}

Giwa Gardens in the Sangotedo district is a water park that claims to be the largest in West Africa.{{Citation |title=Giwa Gardens at Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria The Largest Water Park in West Africa | date=15 March 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9Z0fnFp2xk |access-date=2024-03-16 |language=en}}

Lagos state is in Yorubaland and the Yoruba language is predominant. The state attracts other non-Yorubas who live there in search of greener pastures attracting both Nigerians and foreigners alike.{{Cite web |title=About Lagos |url=https://lagosstate.gov.ng/about-lagos/ |access-date=2022-03-21 |website=Lagos State Government |language=en-US}}

Indigenous inhabitants include the Awori and Ogu {{aka}} Egun in the Ikeja and Badagry Divisions respectively, with the Egun being found mainly in Badagry.

There is also an admixture of other pioneer settlers collectively known as the Eko.{{Cite web |last=omotolani |date=2022-02-03 |title=6 interesting facts about Lagos |url=https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/6-interesting-facts-about-lagos/sxw5k81 |access-date=2022-03-21 |website=Pulse Nigeria |language=en}}

The Alimosho and Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government areas are predominantly populated by the Egba and Egbado Yoruba people. {{cite book |last1=Fenske |first1=James |title=Land abundance and economic institutions: Egba land and slavery |date=1830 |publisher=The Economic History Review |page=65 |jstor=41475597 |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/41475597 |access-date=July 31, 2024}}{{cite journal |last1=Ogunhemi |first1=Gabriel Ogundeji |title=Counting the Camels: The Economics of Transportation in PreIndustrial Nigeria |journal=The Journal of African History |date=1982 |volume=24 |issue=3 |pages=392 |publisher=Nok Publishers |doi=10.1017/S0021853700022143 |url=https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-african-history/article/abs/consider-the-camel-counting-the-camels-the-economics-of-transportation-in-preindustrial-nigeria-by-gabriel-ogundeji-ogunhemi-new-york-and-lagos-nok-publishers-international-1982-pp-x-238-1850-795-paperback/36A644C22E197E8FDF58EAE40CB4C340 |access-date=July 31, 2024|url-access=subscription }} The area is rich in culture, prominent amongst which are the Oro, Igunnu and Egungun annual festivals.

The indigenous people of the Ikorodu and Epe Divisions are mainly the Ijebu, with pockets of Eko-Awori settlers along the coastland and riverine areas.{{Cite web |title=Epe {{!}} Nigeria {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Epe |access-date=2022-03-21 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}

The dominant religions in Lagos State are Christianity and Islam although a certain amount of traditional religion is still practiced.{{Cite web|date=2021-05-18|title=Lagos mulls holiday for traditional worshippers|url=https://punchng.com/lagos-mulls-holiday-for-traditional-worshippers/|access-date=2021-12-14|website=Punch Newspapers|language=en-US}}

Churches represented include Anglican, Baptist, Methodist, 25.6% Roman Catholic, and many local and spiritual churches. Islam and traditional Yoruba spiritism are also practised.

The Anglican Province of Lagos (2002) within the Church of Nigeria includes the four Dioceses of Lagos (1919) led by Bishop Humphrey Bamisebi Olumakaiye until he died 2022, Badagry led by Bishop Babatunde Joseph Adeyemi (2005), Lagos Mainland led by Bishop Akinpelu Johnson (2014) and Lagos West (1999) with 275 parishes led by Bishop James Olusola Odedeji (2013).

343,675 Catholics (2021) in Archdiocese of Lagos (1860 as the Vicariate Apostolic of Dahomey) with 184 parishes under Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins (2012).

{{div col|colwidth=30em}}

• Femi Ojo Ade, writer
• Kemi Adetiba, film maker
• Jimi Agbaje, politician
• Henry Ajomale, politician
• Rilwan Akiolu, Oba of Lagos
• Akinwunmi Ambode, accountant and politician
• Miyonse Amosu, chef and media personality
• Ayodele Awojobi, academic
• Segun Awosanya, advocate
• Muiz Banire, lawyer
• Basketmouth, comedian
• Paul Boroh (born 1958), politician and retired Nigerian Army brigadier general
• Henry Rawlingson Carr, educator
• G. B. A. Coker, former Judge of Supreme Court Of Nigeria
• F. C. O. Coker, first Nigerian Municipal Treasurer, former secretary to the Lagos State Government and the first president of ICAN
• Lanre Towry-Coker, Nigerian Architect, politician
• Davido, musician
• Tony Elumelu, businessman
• Falz, singer
• Babatunde Fashola, politician
• Femi Gbajabiamila, politician
• Bode George, politician
• Ronke Giwa-Onafuwa, radio presenter
• Adekunle Gold, singer
• Amy Jadesimi, businesswoman
• Oladipo Jadesimi, businessman
• Lateef Jakande, politician
• Mobolaji Johnson, First governor, Lagos State.
• TB Joshua, Christian minister
• Fela Kuti, musician
• Mr Macaroni, comedian
• Herbert Macaulay, nationalist
• Musiliu Obanikoro, politician
• Hakeem Olajuwon, basketball player
• Babatunde Olatunji, musician
• Omos, professional wrestler
• Bruce Onobrakpeya, artist
• Oba Otudeko, businessman
• Jim Ovia, businessman
• Rahman Owokoniran, politician
• Babajide Sanwo-Olu, state Governor
• Toyin Saraki, healthcare philanthropist
• Wole Soyinka, writer
• Bola Tinubu, politician
• Efunroye Tinubu, aristocrat
• Remi Tinubu, politician
• Banky W., entertainer and politician
• Funsho Williams, politician
• Wizkid, musician

{{div col end}}

{{Portal|Nigeria}}

• List of government ministries of Lagos State

{{Reflist|30em}}

• {{citation |title=History of the peoples of Lagos State |editor=Ade Adefuye |editor-link=Ade Adefuye |location=Lagos |publisher= Lantern Books |year= 1987 |isbn=9789782281487 |display-editors=etal}}
• Ajose, Sunny A. 2010. "The Evolution and Development of Lagos State Administration in Lagos State: A Sociological Approach."
• {{citation |title=The Changing Face of Lagos: From Vision to Reform and Transformation |publisher=Cities Alliance |url=http://www.citiesalliance.org/sites/citiesalliance.org/files/Lagos-reform-report-lowres.pdf |year= 2012 |author=Michael Filani }}

{{Commons category|Lagos State, Nigeria}}

{{EB1911 poster|Lagos (province)}}

• [http://www.lagosstate.gov.ng/ Lagos State Government official website]
• [https://otutu.com.ng/history-and-cities-of-lagos-nigeria/ History and Cities in Lagos]

{{Divisions and LGAs of Lagos State}}

{{Nigeria states}}

{{Governors of Lagos State}}

{{Yoruba topics}}

{{Authority control}}

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Category:States of Nigeria

Category:States in Yorubaland

Category:States and territories established in 1967

Category:1967 establishments in Nigeria