Nigeria’s megacity, Lagos state has become the most populous state in the country despite it being one of the smallest states, the electricity supply cuts out, the roads are congested, basic sewage works cannot cope, and there are high crime rates. Despite these problems, people are still moving to the state in their thousands

And I know at some point, you may be wondering why this mass migration from other states to Lagos state?

These reasons can be classified into Economic opportunities, Social Opportunities, and Transport.

So let’s take a look at these reasons in more detail.

Economic Opportunities

In Lagos, there are greater job prospects with better compensation and a larger range that aren’t mostly in the main industry like those in rural areas, including farming. Jobs that aren’t available in many other parts of Nigeria, including the capital Abuja, are available here. Lawyers, computer programmers, financiers, and business professionals are in high demand and can make substantially more money in the official economy, pay taxes, and send money home. It is also feasible to work in the unorganized sector, such as a street vendor or recycling rubbish, etc

Social Opportunities

Health care:

In Nigeria, rural communities lack access to adequate healthcare due to poor infrastructure and congested facilities. Because they lack access to health care, the most vulnerable people, primarily children and the elderly, frequently pass away from diseases that could be treated. Nigerians frequently see the cities as places where they may get the basic medical care that can lengthen their lives. However, you do need to be able to pay for your medications, and it is well known for the poor to remain in hospitals even after getting better since they are unable to afford their medical fees.

Education 

One of Lagos’ biggest draws is the chance to give kids a higher education. Lagos has more schools and universities than other places—the state of Lagos alone has over 10 universities! Education is viewed as a ticket out of poverty and enables people to enter fields like finance, entertainment, fashion, and business. The Nigerian film industry, or Nollywood, is based in Lagos.

Transport 

Lagos is investing in the Lagos Rail Mass Transit System.  It was announced in 2008 and phase 1 should open in 2022.  There are already taxis and public buses.  Congestion remains a big problem, however.

Electricity 

Compared to rural areas, Lagos residents have better access to power. Even if there is a lack of electricity and it occasionally cuts out, the situation is still far better than in rural areas, where it might be difficult to locate any electricity at all. In order to lessen the city’s electrical scarcity and to illuminate the streets at night, two additional power stations are proposed. The most affluent homes and companies depend on generators to supply electricity when the network goes down.

Water supply

Only the wealthiest residences have access to a piped water supply, making the water supply unstable as well. Others, though, purchase their water from street vendors or use public faucets and boreholes. People may have to travel miles in rural areas to find fresh water to drink.