Thesis Abstract

The abstract of the research paper Lagos State, located in Nigeria, has a rich history of development and demographic change that has shaped its current status as one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in Africa. This study aims to explore the historical trajectory of Lagos State's development and the demographic shifts that have occurred over time. The history of Lagos State's development can be traced back to its early days as a British colony, which played a significant role in shaping the city's infrastructure and economy. Over the years, Lagos has evolved from a small port town into a sprawling metropolis, experiencing rapid urbanization and industrialization. Demographic changes in Lagos State have been influenced by various factors, including migration, urbanization, and economic opportunities. The city has attracted people from different parts of Nigeria and beyond, leading to a diverse population with various cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The study will analyze the impact of these demographic changes on the social, economic, and political landscape of Lagos State. It will also examine the challenges and opportunities that have arisen as a result of the city's rapid growth and increasing population. By understanding the history of development and demographic change in Lagos State, policymakers and urban planners can make informed decisions to address current issues such as infrastructure development, housing, transportation, and social services. This research aims to provide valuable insights that can contribute to the sustainable development of Lagos State and improve the quality of life for its residents. Overall, this study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on the history of development and demographic change in Lagos State, shedding light on the factors that have shaped the city's growth and transformation over time. It will also offer recommendations for future research and policy interventions to ensure the continued progress and prosperity of Lagos State as a leading urban center in Africa.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Lagos is the economic and social “nucleus” of Nigeria and the West African subregion, accounting for 32 per cent of national GDP. It is also one of the fastestgrowing
cities in the world; by 2015, it is expected to be the globe’s third largest city, according to UN estimates. Over the past decades, the city has had to Bcontend with the challenges that accompanied staggering population growth rates.But since 1999, a consistent leadership has guided a reform process hinged on sustainable urban development. Now, Lagos’s transformation is emerging from its former status as an infamous, decaying metropolis into a modern, attractive, and functional city.
Lagos is a classic example of a modern city, having transformed from a small farming and fishing village in the fifteenth century to a burgeoning mega city in
2010, when its population rose to over 10 million people. Until recently, this megacity4 was generally written about in a negative light and frequently satirized. Today, however, the face of Lagos is changing as a result of a series of transformations eected
by a new style of governance adopted from 1999. In the past, scant attention was paid to land-use planning, basic infrastructure, and other public services needed to sustainably accommodate the city’s exploding population growth. One of the most visible manifestations of this was severe tragic congestion, which ultimately led to the relocation of Nigeria’s
political capital from Lagos to Abuja in 1986. Now, new parks are just one sign that Lagos is on a new path towards sustainable urban development. Less
visible signs of local government reform include improvements in basic city services and physical infrastructure.
Since Nigeria returned to democratic governance in 1999, the successive governors of Lagos State have initiated and pursued a knowledge-based approach
to critical reforms. Aside from promoting sustainable development, these reforms also span resource mobilisation, innovative and inclusive approaches to
spatial planning principles, transportation upgrades, provision of educational health care services and facilities, and partnership building with the private
sector in development. As a result of these reforms, Lagos is being transformed into a modern city that ores a high level of services provided by an increasingly efficient city administration.