Lagos State
“Centre of Excellence”
Key Information
Capital City
Ikeja
Governor
Babajide Sanwo-Olu
Deputy Governor
Obafemi Hamzat
Date Created
May 27, 1967
Geopolitical Zone
South West
Area
3,577 km²
Estimated Population
9,013,534 (Official 2006 Census figure)
Senatorial Districts
3
About Lagos State
Lagos State is Nigeria's primary economic hub and the country's smallest state by land area. Located in the South West geopolitical zone, it serves as the nation's commercial nerve centre and was the federal capital of Nigeria until 1991.
Historical Evolution and Administration
Lagos State was created on May 27, 1967, through the State Creation and Transitional Provisions Decree No. 14 of 1967, which restructured Nigeria into 12 states. Prior to this, the Municipality of Lagos was administered by the Federal Government while the surrounding areas were part of the Western Region. The state officially took off as an administrative entity on April 11, 1968, with Ikeja as its capital. While the federal seat of power moved to Abuja in 1991, Lagos remains Nigeria's financial and commercial centre and hosts many consulates and international businesses, while Abuja serves as the country's political and primary diplomatic capital.
Geography and Coastal Topography
The state is unique for its extensive coastline and maritime geography, with water bodies and wetlands covering about 22% of its total area. It is bounded on the North and East by Ogun State, on the West by the Republic of Benin, and on the South by the Atlantic Ocean. The landscape is dominated by the Lagos and Lekki Lagoons, several creeks, and barrier islands. This coastal positioning has historically defined its role as a major port of entry for West Africa.
Economic Significance and Infrastructure
Lagos generates a significant portion of Nigeria's non-oil Gross Domestic Product and hosts the highest concentration of industrial and financial institutions in the country. The state is home to the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports, which handle the bulk of Nigeria's international trade. Modern infrastructure developments, such as the Lekki Free Trade Zone and the Lagos Rail Mass Transit system, are central to its urban renewal efforts. The state hosts Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Nigeria's busiest airport.
Demographics and Cultural Heritage
While the indigenous inhabitants are predominantly Awori Yoruba, with Ogu/Egun and Isale Eko/Lagos Island communities also historically important, Lagos is a cosmopolitan melting pot representing every ethnic group in Nigeria. It is the centre of the Nigerian entertainment industry, notably Nollywood and the vibrant Afrobeat music scene. Cultural landmarks include the National Arts Theatre in Iganmu and the historic Brazilian Quarter on Lagos Island. The state also maintains a strong educational presence through institutions like the University of Lagos and Lagos State University.
Local Government Areas (20)
Other Nigerian States
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