Here is a concise history of Lagos State, Nigeria
Here is a concise history of Lagos State, Nigeria:
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🌍 Geographical Context
Lagos State is located in the Southwestern region of Nigeria.
It is the smallest state in terms of land area but the most populous and economically significant.
Bordered by Ogun State to the north and east and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.
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🕰️ Pre-Colonial History
The area now known as Lagos was originally inhabited by the Awori people, a subgroup of the Yoruba.
The region was originally called “Eko”, which still remains its traditional name.
Eko was a fishing village and a farming settlement under the rule of the Oba of Benin in the 15th century.
The Benin Empire expanded its influence, and Lagos became a tributary state with the title of Oba of Lagos instituted under Benin’s authority.
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🚢 Colonial Era (19th Century)
Lagos became important during the Atlantic slave trade as a major slave port.
In 1851, the British bombarded Lagos to end the slave trade (known as the Bombardment of Lagos).
By 1861, Lagos was formally annexed by the British and became a British Crown Colony.
It served as the capital of Nigeria from 1914 to 1991, even after the amalgamation of Northern and Southern Nigeria.
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🇳🇬 Post-Independence and State Creation
Nigeria gained independence in 1960, with Lagos remaining the capital.
Lagos State was created on May 27, 1967 by General Yakubu Gowon from the old Federal Territory of Lagos and parts of the Western Region.
It became one of the original 12 states of Nigeria.
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🏙️ Modern Lagos
In 1991, Nigeria’s capital officially moved from Lagos to Abuja, but Lagos remains Nigeria’s commercial capital.
The state is now a mega-city known for:
Economic activity
Cultural influence
Maritime and aviation infrastructure
Tech and entertainment industries (e.g., Nollywood and Afrobeats)
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🧑🤝🧑 Demographics and Culture
Predominantly Yoruba, but incredibly diverse, attracting people from across Nigeria and Africa.
A vibrant mix of languages, religions, music, and traditions.
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