Lagos Island

Lagos Island, located in Lagos State, Nigeria, is the historical and economic heart of Lagos. Originally a small fishing village inhabited by the Awori subgroup of the Yoruba people, Lagos Island’s history dates back to the 15th century when it was known for its strategic location and natural harbor.

In the early 19th century, Lagos Island began to attract European interest. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to visit, followed by the British, who established a trading post on the island in the early 1800s. By 1865, Lagos Island had become a focal point for British colonial administration, which officially annexed Lagos and its surrounding areas. The island’s prominence grew with the expansion of the British colonial influence. It became the center of the British West African trade and played a crucial role in the transatlantic slave trade, although this role diminished with the abolition of slavery. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lagos Island had developed into a major commercial and administrative center.

In 1976, the capital of Lagos State was moved from Lagos Island to Ikeja, reflecting the need for a more centrally located administrative hub. Despite this, Lagos Island remains a vital part of Lagos’s economy and culture. It is home to important landmarks such as the National Museum, the Tinubu Square, and the historic City Hall, which reflect its rich colonial past.

Today, Lagos Island is a bustling urban area characterized by its dense population, commercial activity, and historical architecture. It continues to serve as a central business district and a vibrant cultural center, bridging Lagos’s storied past with its dynamic present.