Lagos
Africa's economic capital where a fishing village became the world's fastest-growing megacity, contributing 30% of Nigeria's GDP from 10% of its population.
Lagos State exists because a fishing settlement became Africa's economic center. The Awori Yoruba called it Eko - "farmstead" - when they lived on marshy islands with mangroves and wildlife. Portuguese landed in 1472; by the 17th century Lagos was a major Atlantic slave trade hub working with Brazilian traders. The Benin Kingdom controlled it briefly, using the island as a war camp. When British naval forces attacked in 1851 and Oba Dosunmu ceded the territory in 1861, Lagos became Britain's West African foothold. The only natural harbor for 400 miles made it essential: Abeokuta, Ibadan, and northern cities depended on Eko for exports. Colonial rule built port infrastructure and rail links. After independence in 1960, Lagos (population 700,000) became the federal capital. The 1970s oil boom triggered population explosion and uncontrolled migration. Today's megacity extends beyond state boundaries with $84 billion GDP - larger than Ghana's or Angola's entire economies. Lagos contributes 30% of Nigerian GDP with only 10% of population. The Port of Lagos handles over half Nigeria's maritime trade. The Dangote Refinery now operates; the Lekki Free Trade Zone attracts investment. By 2026, Lagos will consolidate its position as West Africa's economic capital while infrastructure struggles against 20+ million people.