History of Lagos
The Creation and Evolution of Lagos State
Lagos State was officially created on May 27, 1967, through the enactment of the States (Creation and Transitional Provisions) Decree No. 14 of 1967 by the Federal Military Government. This decree marked a significant restructuring of Nigeria’s federal system, transitioning from the former regional structure to a federation of twelve newly established states.
Prior to this development, the Lagos Municipality was administered as a Federal Territory under the Federal Ministry of Lagos Affairs, which served as the regional authority. The Lagos City Council handled local municipal governance within the city. Meanwhile, surrounding metropolitan areas—such as Ikeja, Agege, Mushin, Ojo, Ikorodu, Epe, and Badagry—were administered by the Western Region Government and collectively referred to as the Colony Province.
With the creation of Lagos State, these diverse jurisdictions were unified into a single administrative entity. The state became operational on April 11, 1968, with Lagos Island designated to serve a dual role as both the State Capital and the Federal Capital of Nigeria.
This arrangement remained in place until 1976, when the Federal Government created the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). As a result, the state capital was relocated from Lagos Island to Ikeja. However, Lagos continued to serve as Nigeria’s federal capital until the formal relocation of the seat of government to Abuja on December 12, 1991.
Although Lagos ceased to be the political capital of Nigeria, it retained and strengthened its role as the country’s economic, commercial, and cultural center. Today, Lagos is the most populous state in Nigeria and a major driver of national development, innovation, and international engagement.
Cultural Heritage of Lagos
A Diverse and Dynamic Cultural Landscape
Lagos is not only an administrative and economic hub but also a vibrant cultural center. The state is home to a wide range of ethnic communities, with the Yorùbá people forming the majority. In addition, significant populations of Hausa, Igbo, Ijaw, Nupe, Fulani, and international residents contribute to the city’s diverse identity. This cultural plurality is evident in Lagos’s languages, festivals, cuisines, religious practices, and artistic expressions.
Continuity of Tradition and Creative Innovation
Lagos’s cultural life is defined by the coexistence of deep-rooted traditions and modern urban creativity. Traditional practices such as oríkì (praise poetry), Adire textile production, and the use of talking drums remain integral to the social fabric. At the same time, Lagos plays a central role in Nigeria’s creative industries, with notable achievements in music, film, fashion, literature, and contemporary art.
The state hosts a range of significant cultural events, including the Eyo Festival, Lagos Carnival, and international showcases such as Lagos Fashion Week. It is also home to institutions like the National Museum, Terra Kulture, and the Nike Art Gallery, which reflect and promote both historical heritage and contemporary expression.
Faith, Coexistence, and Social Identity
Lagos is known for its longstanding atmosphere of religious tolerance. The city accommodates communities practicing Islam, Christianity, and traditional African religions, often side by side. This culture of coexistence is reflected in the physical and social landscape, where mosques, churches, and traditional shrines are prominent and respected.
Lagos Today
Lagos represents more than a geographic or administrative entity. It is a place where history, diversity, creativity, and ambition converge. From its origins as a colonial municipality to its present status as a global megacity, Lagos continues to shape the narrative of Nigeria’s past, present, and future.