urban futures Lagos

Location of Lagos

Lagos is situated in the western part of Africa, southwest of Nigeria, on the Atlantic coast of the Gulf of Guinea.

Slum Dwellers

Individuals in Lagos who live in urban areas under one roof, often in houses made of scrap material and rubbish from dumps, leading to unsanitary conditions.

Wealth Disparity

Contrasts in living conditions in Lagos, where slum dwellers reside in poor conditions while the rich live in gated communities like Banana Island, with expensive properties.

Economic Impact

Lagos is home to about 9,500 millionaires and hosts major companies like First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Unilever, and Nestle, contributing significantly to Nigeria's economy and urbanization.

Port and Trade

Lagos handles 80% of Nigeria's imports and ranks among the top 10 busiest ports in Africa, playing a crucial role in the country's trade activities.

Population Density

Lagos faces challenges with over 22,000 people living per square kilometer, leading to housing shortages and increased slum settlements like Ajengule and Makoko.

Health Risks

Many slum dwellers lack access to clean drinking water, increasing the risk of diseases like typhoid and cholera, with a low life expectancy of 51 years in the slums.

Child Labor

Children and adults in Lagos work as rag pickers in slums, earning minimal income by collecting recyclable materials for sale, highlighting issues of poverty and exploitation.

Urban Futures Lagos Nigeria Case Study