Lagos State: Fascinating Facts You Need To Know
Lagos State is a bustling metropolis located in the South-West geopolitical zone of Nigeria. With a population of over 14 million people, Lagos State is the most populous state in Nigeria and one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa. The state is known for its vibrant economy, cultural diversity, and rich history. Lagos State is home to several ethnic groups, including the Yoruba, Igbo, Egun, and Hausa, and is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, beaches, cultural festivals, and historical landmarks. In this article, we will delve into some interesting facts about Lagos State, including its date of creation, state name meaning, state capital, state slogan, state border, and much more.
Lagos State: Fascinating Facts You Need To Know
Creation Of Lagos State
Lagos State was officially created on May 27, 1967, along with other states in Nigeria, during the military regime of General Yakubu Gowon. Prior to this, Lagos was a federal territory under British colonial rule and later a federal territory under Nigerian independence.
Lagos State Meaning
Lagos State was named after the Portuguese word for “lakes”, which refers to the many lagoons and waterways in the area. Lagos was originally a small fishing village inhabited by the Awori people before the arrival of the Portuguese in the 15th century. The Portuguese named the area “Lagos” due to the numerous lagoons and waterways in the area.
Lagos State Capital
The capital of Lagos State is Ikeja, which is located in the mainland area of Lagos. Ikeja is one of the most developed and busiest parts of Lagos State and serves as the administrative and commercial center of the state.
Lagos State Slogan
“Center of Excellence” is the official slogan of Lagos State. The slogan was adopted in 2002 as part of the state government’s efforts to promote Lagos as a hub for business, tourism, and culture. The slogan reflects Lagos State’s status as one of the most developed and vibrant states in Nigeria.
Lagos State Border
Lagos State is bordered by Ogun State to the north and east, the Atlantic Ocean to the south, and the Republic of Benin to the west. The state has a coastline of approximately 180 km along the Atlantic Ocean and shares a land border with Ogun State to the north and east. The border with the Republic of Benin to the west is marked by the Seme border, which is one of the busiest land borders in West Africa.
Lagos State Geopolitical Region
Lagos State is located in the South-West geopolitical zone of Nigeria. This zone is made up of six states, including Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo. The South-West geopolitical zone is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant economy, and diverse population.
Lagos State Local Government
Lagos State has 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs). These LGAs are further divided into wards and districts, which are administered by elected officials. The LGAs are responsible for providing basic services such as healthcare, education, and sanitation to the residents of Lagos State.
Lagos State Senatorial Districts
Lagos State has three senatorial districts – Lagos West, Lagos East, and Lagos Central. Each senatorial district is represented by a senator in the National Assembly. The senatorial districts are also divided into federal constituencies, which are represented by members of the House of Representatives.
Lagos State Main Religion
Christianity and Islam are the main religions practiced in Lagos State. Lagos State is a cosmopolitan state with a diverse population, and as such, there are also other religions practiced in the state, such as traditional religions and Hinduism.
Lagos State Landmass
Lagos State has a land area of 3,577 square kilometers, making it the smallest state in Nigeria in terms of landmass. Despite its small size, Lagos State is one of the most densely populated states in Nigeria and is known for its vibrant economy, cultural diversity, and bustling urban centers.
Lagos State Population
According to the National Population Commission, Lagos State had a population of 14.8 million people as of 2021, making it the most populous state in Nigeria. The state’s population is expected to continue to grow due to its status as a major economic hub and its attractiveness to migrants from other parts of Nigeria and beyond.
Tribes / Ethnic Group In Lagos State
Lagos State is home to various ethnic groups, including the Yoruba, Igbo, Egun, and Hausa. However, the Yoruba are the predominant ethnic group in the state, accounting for over 60% of the population. The Yoruba are known for their rich cultural heritage, which includes art, music, and festivals such as the Eyo Festival and the Lagos Carnival.
Lagos State Tourism
Lagos State is known for its vibrant nightlife, beaches, cultural festivals, and historical landmarks such as the National Museum Lagos, Freedom Park, and the Lagos Lighthouse. The state is also home to several popular tourist attractions, including the Lekki Conservation Center, Nike Art Gallery, and the Tafawa Balewa Square.
Lagos State Natural Resource
Lagos State is rich in natural resources such as oil and gas, limestone, and clay. The state is also known for its extensive waterways, which provide opportunities for fishing, transportation, and tourism. However, the exploitation of these resources has led to environmental degradation and pollution in some parts of the state.
Lagos State First Democratic/ Elected Governor
Lateef Jakande was the first democratically elected Governor of Lagos State, serving from 1979 to 1983. Jakande was a renowned journalist, politician, and social activist who is credited with initiating several development projects in Lagos State during his tenure, including the construction of low-cost housing units, schools, and hospitals.
Higher Institutions In Lagos State
Lagos State is home to several higher institutions of learning, including the University of Lagos, Lagos State University, Yaba College of Technology, and Lagos City Polytechnic. These institutions offer a wide range of academic programs in various fields, including medicine, engineering, law, and social sciences. Lagos State is also home to several vocational and technical institutions, which provide training in skills such as fashion design, welding, and automobile repair.
Interesting Facts About Lagos State
- Date Of Creation: Lagos State was created on May 27, 1967.
- State Name Meaning: Lagos State is named after the Portuguese word for “lakes”, which refers to the many lagoons and waterways in the area.
- State Capital: The capital of Lagos State is Ikeja.
- State Slogan: “Center of Excellence” is the official slogan of Lagos State.
- State Border: Lagos State is bordered by Ogun State to the north and east, the Atlantic Ocean to the south, and the Republic of Benin to the west.
- Geopolitical Region: Lagos State is located in the South-West geopolitical zone of Nigeria.
- Number Of Local Govt: Lagos State has 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
- Number Of Senatorial Districts In The State: Lagos State has three senatorial districts – Lagos West, Lagos East, and Lagos Central.
- Main Religion: Christianity and Islam are the main religions practiced in Lagos State.
- State Landmass: Lagos State has a land area of 3,577 square kilometers, making it the smallest state in Nigeria in terms of landmass.
- State Population: According to the National Population Commission, Lagos State had a population of 14.8 million people as of 2021, making it the most populous state in Nigeria.
- Tribes / Ethnic Group In The State: Lagos State is home to various ethnic groups, including the Yoruba, Igbo, Egun, and Hausa. However, the Yoruba are the predominant ethnic group in the state.
- State Tourism: Lagos State is known for its vibrant nightlife, beaches, cultural festivals, and historical landmarks such as the National Museum Lagos, Freedom Park, and the Lagos Lighthouse.
- State Natural Resource: Lagos State is rich in natural resources such as oil and gas, limestone, and clay.
- First Democratic/ Elected Governor: Lateef Jakande was the first democratically elected Governor of Lagos State, serving from 1979 to 1983.
- Higher Institutions In The State: Lagos State is home to several higher institutions of learning, including the University of Lagos, Lagos State University, Yaba College of Technology, and Lagos City Polytechnic.