Lagos’ population has grown by about 25% on average every 5 years since 1965

  • Lagos has grown from 325,200 in 1950 to a an estimated 17.2 million in 2025
  • The State’s fastest 5-year growth came between 1955–1960 at 62.7%.
  • Since 2000, growth has steadied around 18–20% every 5 years.
  • More than 10 million people added between 2000 and 2025 alone.
  • Growth continues to outstrip investments in housing, transport, and basic services.

Lagos is swelling with people. Not slowly, but in massive, relentless waves. From just over 300,000 in 1950 to an estimated 17.2 million residents by 2025, the city is projected to add over 7 million more people by 2035, reaching 24.4 million. As the population climbs, Lagos faces a crucial test: can housing, roads, water, and power networks stretch fast enough to meet the rising tide of demand?

Source:

Internet Geography

Period:

1950-2035
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