LAGOS STATE Meaning and
Definition
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Lagos State is a state located in southwestern Nigeria, on the Atlantic coast of the Gulf of Guinea. It is the smallest state in Nigeria by land area, covering approximately 3,345 square kilometers, but is the most populous state in the country, with over 20 million residents as of 2021.
The state is named after Lagos, its capital and largest city, which is also the economic, financial, and commercial hub of Nigeria. Lagos State was created on May 27, 1967, as a separate administrative entity from the former Western Region. It is one of the 36 states in Nigeria and is governed by an executive governor and a state legislature.
Lagos State is considered the economic nerve center of Nigeria, hosting several major industries, businesses, and headquarters of national and multinational corporations. It is renowned for its vibrant entertainment and nightlife industry, significant contributions to the country's GDP, and as a major destination for trade and commerce in West Africa.
The state is also home to various iconic landmarks and tourist attractions, including the National Museum Lagos, Lekki Conservation Centre, Tafawa Balewa Square, and the Nigerian National Museum. Lagos State has a diverse population, comprising people from different ethnicities, cultures, and religions, making it a melting pot of Nigerian diversity.
Overall, Lagos State serves as a significant economic, cultural, and political center in Nigeria, attracting both local and foreign investments, and playing a vital role in the development and progress of the country.
Etymology of LAGOS STATE
The word "Lagos" originated from the Portuguese language. It is derived from the Portuguese word "lago", meaning "lake", or "lagoa", meaning "lagoon". The name was given by the Portuguese explorers who arrived in present-day Lagos, Nigeria, in the 15th century. The area had a lagoon and numerous lakes, which led the explorers to name it "Lagos".
The term "state" is not part of the etymology of "Lagos". It was added later to designate Lagos as a separate administrative division within Nigeria. Lagos State was created on May 27, 1967, when Nigeria transitioned to a federal system of government and divided the country into states.
