All around the world — Lagos

Nigeria’s largest city, Lagos, has seen an explosion in terms of its population over the last 50 years, growing from 300,000 in 1950 to an anticipated 18 million by 2010. Lagos served as Nigeria’s capital between 1914-1976, when it was replaced by the purpose-built city, Abuja. Most government functions remained in Lagos, however, until Abuja was finally completed in 1991.

The original settlers of Lagos were of Benin and Awori Eko heritage. Originally known as Eko, Lagos is thought to have been renamed after the Portuguese coastal town, Lagos, when 15th century Portuguese traders used it as a trading post. During this time, Lagos served as a major centre of the slave trade. In 1861, it was officially annexed as a British colony. This saw the end of slave trade there, and gave the British control over its trades. British rule in Lagos ended in 1960, when Nigeria gained independence and Lagos was returned to the African people.

Activities

1. Introduction
2. Take flight
3. Coffee, cocoa and cotton
4. The beat of a drum
5. An African adventure
6. A river runs through it
7. Important export
8. African delicacies
9. African art
10. West African weather