Lagos stands out as one of the most fascinating cities in Africa and ranks among the most visited destinations in Nigeria.
From the yellow and black Danfo buses to bustling markets, bougie restaurants, and enticing tourist attractions, Lagos offers a horde of experiences.
There is a lot of information to uncover about Lagos, and we’ll share ten fascinating facts that you might not be aware of.
- Lagos was formerly known as Eko which was given to it by its first king, Oba Ado during its early history: Oba Ado, the first king of Lagos, named the settlement Eko, which means “war camp” in Yoruba. This name reflected the town’s origins as a place settled by warriors. The Portuguese were early European explorers who played a significant role in maritime trade and exploration along the West African coast, contributing to the name of Eko as Lagos.
- The tallest building in West Africa, NECOM house is located in Lagos. The building is tall by 160 m (520 ft), with 32 floors. It is a skyscraper which houses the headquarters of NITEL.
- Lagos was once under the influence of the Kingdom of Benin. In the early 19th century, Lagos was a part of the Oyo Empire. However, by the 1830s, the Kingdom of Benin, which was a powerful and sophisticated pre-colonial African state, extended its control over Lagos.
- Lagos was the capital city of Nigeria from 1914 until 1991. The decision to make Lagos the capital was influenced by its strategic location, being a major port and economic centre. However, due to issues of overpopulation, traffic congestion, and the need for a more centrally located capital, the government decided to move the capital to Abuja in 1991.
- Lagos port is regarded as one of the top 10 seaports in Africa. Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports have been recognized as some of the busiest seaports in Africa.
- The official name of the Third Mainland Bridge is Murtala Muhammed Bridge. The bridge is named after Murtala Muhammed, a former military ruler and Head of State of Nigeria and commissioned in 1990 during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida. Until 1996, it was the longest bridge in Africa measuring 11.8 km.
- Lagos is the smallest but most populous state in Nigeria. Despite its relatively small landmass, it has a high population density and is a major center for commerce, industry, and entertainment in Nigeria.
- Lagos is notorious for its traffic congestion. The city’s rapid population growth, coupled with a high number of vehicles and limited infrastructure, contributes to frequent and severe traffic jams.
- Makoko, one of the largest floating cities in Africa, is located in Lagos. Situated on the Lagos Lagoon, Makoko is known for its unique architectural structure, with houses built on stilts above the water.
- One of the rarest and iconic traditional festivals, Eyo Festival or Adamu Orisa, is celebrated on the island of Lagos. The festival is not held on fixed dates and typically occurs on special occasions or to mark significant events in the city.