Lagos State is a melting pot of different ethnic groups that have made significant contributions to its growth and development. Among these groups are the Igbo people who have been an integral part of Lagos State for centuries. They have contributed to the economic, political, and social development of the state, and it is important to recognize their immense contributions.
The Igbo people have a long history in Lagos dating back to the 15th century when they first settled in the area. Over time, they have become one of the most prominent ethnic groups in Lagos, making significant contributions to the development of the city.
One of the most significant contributions of the Igbo people to Lagos is their role in the institutional development of the city. They have played a crucial role in the development of the railways, ports and shipyards, education and research facilities, banking and commodities exchange, and the development of towns like Yaba, Surulere, Ebutta-Metta, Festac Town, Victoria Island, and the Ajah-Lekki axis. The Igbo people have also been instrumental in the establishment of different industries in Lagos and have been drivers of commerce and exchange.
The Igbo people have also made significant contributions to the cultural and political environment of Lagos. The arrival of Dr. Namdi Azikiwe to Lagos in 1937 after his studies in the United States stimulated the political and cultural environment of Lagos as no other has before or after him. Zik represented Lagos in the western house and resurrected the wizard of Kirsten hall from political death. The NCNC was the power in Lagos, and not the Action Group. The Igbo were prominent in the governance of Lagos in the Lagos City Hall.
In the area of sports, school football, and athletics, the Igbo people have been dominant in some of the most prominent schools in Lagos such as Kings College, St. Gregory school, St. Finbars, Akoka, Igbobi College, and Ahmadiyya College, Agege. They have produced some of the most brilliant and resourceful athletes and footballers in the city such as Njokwu, George Amu, Stephen Keshi, Henry Nwosu, Patrick Noquapor, Peter Anieke, and Sammy Opone.
It is also important to note that the Igbo people have contributed immensely to the economic growth of Lagos State. They have invested heavily in different sectors of the economy, including real estate, manufacturing, and trading. Lagos Island, for instance, has been taken over by Igbo traders in their thousands who have purchased, developed, and occupied most of the properties in the area. The value of their investments in Lagos Island alone is in trillions of naira.
The Igbo people have made significant contributions to the development of Lagos State, and their impact cannot be ignored. They have been an integral part of the state's growth and development for centuries and should be celebrated for their contributions. Instead of deporting them, as some have suggested, we should continue to praise and encourage them to keep developing Lagos State. It is only through their continued participation and contribution that Lagos State will continue to grow and prosper.
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