Lagos State

Lagos State is a governmental region in southwestern Nigeria with its capital in Ikeja, covering coastal areas and several islands. The territory divides into twenty administrative districts including Alimosho, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, and Kosofe, and serves as the economic center of the country.

Portuguese sailors reached the Awori fishing settlement in 1472 and developed the region into a major trading center. The governmental territory was created in 1967 as part of Nigerian administrative structure after independence.

Residents often speak Yoruba and English side by side, while Pidgin English can be heard in streets and markets. Many neighborhoods have small shops and street kitchens selling Jollof rice, Suya, and other local dishes every day.

Visitors can move between districts using buses, water ferries, and motorcycle taxis. The best time to travel is during drier months when roads are easier to navigate and rainfall is lighter.

The territory contains a free trade zone in Lekki with industrial parks and port facilities along the coast. The zone stretches across a wide area and attracts companies from different countries.

Location: Nigeria

Inception: May 27, 1967

Capital city: Ikeja

Shares border with: Ogun State, Ouémé Department

Website: https://lagosstate.gov.ng

GPS coordinates: 6.58333,3.75000

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:00