Lagos
People
The people of Lagos, often referred to as Lagosians, are a lively and distinct set of people, embodying the spirit of one of Africa’s most dynamic cities. At the center of Lagos’s population are the indigenous groups, primarily the Yoruba and specifically the Awori subgroup, who have lived in the region for centuries. Over the years, Lagos has attracted people from various ethnic groups from within Nigeria and beyond, making it a center forcultures, languages, and traditions. This diversity has contributed to the city’s unique identity, characterized by a blend of traditional and contemporary influences.
Lagosians are known for a high entrepreneurial spirit, and vibrant culture. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle has shaped its inhabitants to be adaptable, hardworking, and innovative, contributing to Lagos’s reputation as the economic powerhouse of Nigeria. The social fabric of Lagos is woven with the threads of community and solidarity, where both indigenous and non-indigenous residents coexist and collaborate. This sense of community is especially evident in local markets, religious institutions, and neighborhood associations, where Lagosians from all walks of life interact and support one another.
Lagosians are at the forefront of Nigeria’s entertainment and creative industries, with the city being the epicenter of Nollywood, Afrobeats, and Nigerian fashion. The people’s creativity and artistic talents are showcased in numerous festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions held throughout the year.
Culture
Lagos, with its Yoruba and Awori heritage, showcasing centuries-old traditions, epitomized by the spectacular Eyo Festival. Myths and spirituality imbue daily life, adding depth and meaning to the city’s soul.
However, Lagos is more than its roots; it’s a dynamic metropolis in constant reinvention. Cultural fusion from across Nigeria and beyond has transformed Lagos into a trendsetting powerhouse. Afrobeats, a musical gift to the world, and the bold fashion scene, blending traditional fabrics with cutting-edge designs, exemplify the city’s innovative spirit.
Traditional attire in Lagos reflects this diversity, with each ethnic group proudly displaying its cultural identity during celebrations and ceremonies. The city’s markets, religious gatherings, and social clubs pulsate with the heartbeat of community, fostering unity and camaraderie among its people. Additionally, Lagos’s streets and galleries serve as vibrant canvases for artistic expression, showcasing the dreams and aspirations of its people. In Lagos, culture is not merely observed but lived and celebrated, making every moment a discovery and every experience a story waiting to be told.
Economy
Lagos State, the economic powerhouse of Nigeria, where the pulse of commerce beats with relentless energy and ambition. This bustling metropolis isn’t just the financial heart of Nigeria; it’s a beacon of economic opportunity that shines brightly on the African continent. With a GDP that rivals entire nations, Lagos is a testament to what happens when innovation meets opportunity on a grand scale. At the core of Lagos’s economic dominance is its strategic position as a major port city. The Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port begateways for international trade, serving as critical nodes in the global supply chain. These ports are the lifeblood of the Nigerian economy, facilitating the flow of goods in and out of the country, and driving significant revenue in the process.
But Lagos’s economic story is more than just shipping containers and trade statistics. It’s a city that thrives on diversity and dynamism. The informal sector buzzes with activitiesshowcasing the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Lagosians. Providing livelihoods for millions and contributing significantly to its GDP. Lagos is also the epicenter of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, hosting major corporations and contributing a substantial portion of the country’s oil revenue. However, the city’s economic vision extends beyond natural resources. Lagos is at the forefront of Nigeria’s tech revolution, with the Yaba district, often referred to as “Silicon Lagoon,” being home to a burgeoning tech ecosystem.
The finance and services sector in Lagos is robust, with numerous banks, financial institutions, and service companies headquartered in the city. This sector is a critical driver of economic growth, providing the necessary capital and financial services to fuel other industries’ expansion. In essence, Lagos State’s economy is a complex, multifaceted powerhouse, driven by a combination of strategic location, entrepreneurial zeal, and a relentless pursuit of innovation. It’s a city that’s setting the pace for economic development in Nigeria and Africa at large. This is Lagos! where the future of Africa’s economy is being shaped every day.
Politics
Politics in Lagos State, Nigeria, is marked by its dynamic nature and pivotal role in the nation’s political landscape. Since its inception, Lagos has been a focal point of political activity, witnessing a succession of leaders who have left indelible marks on the state’s governance, Lagos has seen diverse leadership styles and ideologies that shaped its trajectory.
From the initial military administration led by Mobolaji Johnson from 1967 to 1975 to the tenure of Mohammed Buba Marwa as military administrator from 1996 to 1999, the emergence of Bola Tinubu as governor in 1999 marked a significant turning point in Lagos’s political landscape. Under his leadership, Lagos experienced rapid infrastructural development and economic growth, earning him widespread acclaim as the “Architect of Modern Lagos.” This era also saw the rise of the Action Congress (AC) as a dominant political force in the state, which later merger onto the All-Progressive Congress (APC) a trend that has continued through subsequent administrations, including Babatunde Fashola, Akinwunmi Ambode, and currently Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Despite its political dominance, Lagos remains a hotbed of political activity, with rival parties vying for control and influence. The state’s strategic importance as Nigeria’s economic nerve center ensures that political developments in Lagos reverberate across the country.
pcl. State Performance Index
The pcl. State Performance Index provides a comprehensive assessment of Abia State's overall performance, combining primary survey data with data from credible sources. In summary, Abia State achieved a PSPI Score of -0.32, ranking 36th out of 37 states with a BBB rating, indicating Under Performance.
Summary of Analysis
Abia State’s assessment reveals a sub-optimal utilisation of its socioeconomic potential, compounded by the pessimistic perspectives voiced by its citizens in our survey. This combined evaluation results in Abia State receiving a BB rating, indicating “under-performance,” and securing the 36th overall ranking. Abia State requires significant improvement across all other indicators except for literacy rate and the capital expenditure to budget ratio. Additionally, effective management of citizens’ perceptions of performance is crucial. Abia State should prioritise strengthening public institutions, investing in infrastructure, and fostering human capital development.
Outlook for Lagos State: Positive
The outlook for Abia State remains positive, contingent upon several key factors:
1. Political Shift: The recent election victory of Mr Alex Otti from the Labour Party heralds a promising change in Abia State’s political landscape. The public’s optimism suggests a heightened focus on people-centric governance, potentially translating into improved overall administration.
2. Private Sector Expertise: Governor Alex Otti’s background in the private sector, notably as a seasoned banker, injects valuable expertise into the state’s leadership. While promising, potential conflicts with the public service require careful management to ensure effective collaboration and governance.
3. Innovative Local Governance: A groundbreaking shift in local governance sees accomplished individuals and former military leaders appointed as mayors, a departure from traditional political appointments. While not constitutionally mandated, this innovative approach aims to engage elites in government, fostering efficient local administration and promising prosperity.
4. Infrastructural Drive: The prioritisation of major road projects, including the Aba-Port Harcourt road constructed by Julius Berger, underscores the commitment to transformative infrastructure. Well-connected roads are vital for trade and hold the potential to drive holistic state development.
5. Resource Optimisation: Abia State possesses untapped resources, including gas reserves and a skilled workforce. Effective utilisation of these assets is a key driver for growth and could significantly impact the state’s economic outlook.
While the current positive outlook is a good starting point for Abia state, it is crucial to recognise and confront specific challenges that have the potential to hinder further progress. These challenges include:
1. Early Politicking for the Next Elections: Due to the Labour Party movement in the Southeast and the need for the ruling party at the centre to gain more grounds, politicians and leaders in Abia might become preoccupied with preparing for the next elections soon after taking office. This early focus on political campaigns and securing future positions can divert attention and resources away from governance and addressing the immediate needs of the state’s residents. It may result in less effective governance and slower progress on important issues.
2. Ongoing Agitation in the Southeast: The Southeast region of Nigeria has experienced agitation and unrest in recent years, with various groups and movements expressing their grievances and demands. If not well managed, these ongoing tensions and protests could disrupt peace and stability in Abia State. It might create an environment of uncertainty that hampers economic activities, investments, and overall development efforts. Therefore, effectively addressing and managing these regional tensions is essential for continued progress in the state
Recommendations for Sustainable Progress
To ensure sustainable progress and growth and move Abia State to a positive outlook, the following recommendations should be considered:
1. Enhanced citizen Engagement: Abia State should prioritise engaging with its citizens through regular town hall meetings, consultations with key stakeholders, and transparent communication. Involving citizens in policymaking is essential for effective governance.
2. Political Solution for Agitation: The state government should engage with the federal government to find a lasting political solution to the ongoing agitation in the Southeast, fostering peace and stability.
3. Infrastructure Revolution: Commence an infrastructure revolution in the state using creative means such as concessions, public-private partnerships (PPPs), and project finance. This will enhance the state’s physical and economic development.
4. Strengthen Public Institutions: Pay attention to the traditional institutions and public service to ensure effective service delivery for the benefit of the public. Strengthening institutions is crucial for governance and development.
5. Maximise Domestic Trade: Improve tax reforms, enhance market access and development, and invest in transportation infrastructure to maximise opportunities for domestic trade. This will stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities.
6. Inter-State Collaboration for Progress: Collaborate with other state governments across Nigeria, drawing lessons from states like Akwa Ibom, Jigawa, Kwara, Gombe, and Kogi in various areas such as infrastructure development, job creation, financial inclusion, public institution strengthening, and the preservation of social and cultural values. Learning from the experiences of successful states can help Abia State bridge gaps and achieve its development goals.
By implementing these recommendations and focusing on the identified areas of improvement, Abia State can further solidify its position as a prosperous and stable state within Nigeria, contributing to its continuous growth and development.
Fact Sheet
Internally Generated Revenue
18.65 B
Y-o-Y
-5%
Per Capital Income
943,526.99
Y-o-Y
10
PMS Price
643.13
Y-o-Y
248%
Budget Size
160.52 B
Y-o-Y
9
Capital Expenditure
45.42 B
Y-o-Y
4%
Operating Expenditure
54.88B
Y-o-Y
1
Inflation Rate
29%
Y-o-Y
32%
Unemployment Rate
50.10%
Y-o-Y
5
Poverty Rate
10.7%
Y-o-Y
-65%
Infant Mortality Rate
115
Y-o-Y
37%
Literacy Rate
89
Y-o-Y
-7%
FAAC Allocation
82.95 B
Y-o-Y
35%
Data Source
National Bureau of Statistics:
▪ FAAC Allocation – 2022
▪ Inflation rate – 2022 – 2023
▪ PMS Price – 2022/23 Q4
▪ GDP – 2021 & 2022
▪ Mineral resources The World Bank
▪ Ease of doing business report
Kingmakers State of States Report
▪ Population
▪ Employment rate
▪ Mortality rate
▪ Literacy rate
Statista
▪ Unemployment Rate – 2020
NGF Digital Repository
▪ Capital and Operating Expenditure
▪ IGR
▪ Domestic and Foreign Debts
State Government Websites
▪ Budget Sizes – 2022 & 2023
Entering your name, email address and clicking “Submit” means you agree to receive updates about the work we do at pSPI. Phillips consulting will never spam you. Please, click here to learn more about how we protect your privacy.
Join us in shaping your state's future! Participate in PCL surveys to contribute to the State Performance Index report. Your input drives positive change.
Error: Contact form not found.