All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has refuted claims that the state receives excessive favor from the Federal Government.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Lagos, APC Spokesperson Mr. Seye Oladejo dismissed such notions, asserting that Lagos, as a former capital territory, rightfully deserves a special status.
Oladejo described Lagos as a microcosm of Nigeria, a dynamic urban center forged through vision, resilience, and inclusivity. He rejected the idea that the state benefits from undue federal attention or privileges.
“Lagos is the powerhouse of Nigeria’s economy,” Oladejo stated. “It accounts for over 20% of the nation’s GDP, 55% of VAT revenue, hosts 65% of corporate headquarters, and handles 70% of maritime imports and logistics. These are verifiable facts, driven by strategic governance, not federal favoritism.”
He emphasized that, despite Abuja’s role as the official capital, Lagos remains Nigeria’s commercial, cultural, and economic heartbeat. “Lagos welcomes all Nigerians as equal contributors to its story, regardless of their background,” he said.
Oladejo highlighted that Lagos serves as a retirement haven for many of Nigeria’s prominent figures, including former governors, ministers, and industry leaders. “They choose Lagos because it feels like home,” he noted.
However, he acknowledged the immense challenges Lagos faces due to its openness. With a population exceeding 22 million, the state grapples with: infrastructure strain,
healthcare demands,
education pressures, environmental challenges, security concerns.
On housing, Oladejo noted that despite efforts to build affordable homes, population growth fuels a persistent housing deficit, leading to rising costs and informal settlements. Social welfare programs, he added, support a diverse population, including non-indigenes, such as the unemployed, elderly, and artisans.
Despite these burdens, Lagos remains vibrant, progressive, and peaceful. Oladejo argued that claims of federal over-pampering are baseless. “In 2024, Lagos received only ₦531.1 billion in federal allocation—3.48% of the total, despite generating over 55% of VAT and a third of non-oil revenue,” he said.
“Lagos has earned its status through performance, not privilege. It’s a national asset, a hub for all Nigerians—whether traders in Alaba, professionals in Ikoyi, or retirees in Lekki,” he added. “Lagos is overburdened, over-performing, and under-recognized.”
Oladejo stressed that granting Lagos a Special Status is critical for national stability.
“This isn’t about pity; it’s about acknowledging Lagos’ role and responsibilities,” he said. The call for special status, he noted, has been endorsed by figures like Chief Obafemi Awolowo and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, yet remains unaddressed.
He urged the National Assembly to prioritize national interest over regional biases and grant Lagos the recognition it deserves.
“Let this generation of lawmakers act with vision. Nigeria’s success depends on supporting Lagos,” Oladejo concluded. (NAN)
