Bryan McAllister’s personal reference notebook
September 11, 2026Short & citedBlog
Civic Viewpoint.
A quiet encyclopedia with a personal desk
Kept by Bryan McAllister — short guides, clear facts, and the Canadian angle when it matters.
Civic Brief • City

Lagos

Lagos is a large metropolitan port city in southwestern Nigeria and the largest city in the country.

Updated September 11, 20261 min readCited sources

Lagos is a massive metropolitan port city in southwestern Nigeria and the country's largest urban area. It is one of Africa's most populous cities and a major economic and cultural hub.

What it is

Lagos is Nigeria's largest city and a key port on the Atlantic coast, located in Lagos State. It was the federal capital of Nigeria from independence in 1960 until December 1991, when Abuja took over. The city is also known as Èkó in Yoruba.

Key details

Lagos sits on the Bight of Benin and the Gulf of Guinea, with its urban core on Lagos Island and surrounding lagoons. Its population is estimated between 17 million and over 20 million, making it one of the fastest-growing megacities globally. The city is a major trade, industrial, and financial centre.

Why it matters

Lagos is a significant economic hub in Africa and a centre for commerce, industry, and government. For Canadian readers, it matters through trade, migration, business ties, and diaspora connections, reflecting its international importance.

In short

  • Lagos is Nigeria's largest city and a major Atlantic port.
  • It was the national capital until 1991, replaced by Abuja.
  • Population estimates range from 17 million to over 20 million.
  • It is a key economic and cultural centre in Africa.
Canadian angle

Lagos is relevant to Canadian readers through trade, migration, business, and diaspora links; it is one of Africa’s major commercial hubs and a city of international significance.

Quick questions

Is Lagos the capital of Nigeria?
No. Lagos was the capital until December 1991, when Abuja became the federal capital.
Is Lagos the largest city in Nigeria?
Yes. Multiple sources describe Lagos as Nigeria’s largest city.
Where is Lagos located?
Lagos is in southwestern Nigeria on the coast of the Bight of Benin and the Gulf of Guinea.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lagos
    Supports: General description, location, population estimate, and local name Èkó.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/Lagos-Nigeria
    Supports: Largest city status, location, and capital history.
  3. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/summary/Lagos-Nigeria
    Supports: Historical development, colonial history, and former capital status.
  4. African Cities Research Consortium — https://www.african-cities.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/ACRC_Lagos_City-Scoping-Study.pdf
    Supports: Historical growth, coastal location, and city development.
  5. BBC News — https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/resources/idt-sh/lagos
    Supports: Population estimates and rapid growth of the city.
  6. EBSCO — https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/lagos-nigeria
    Supports: Economic importance, location, and historical overview.