Project Abstract

Abstract
Lagos State, located in the southwestern part of Nigeria, has a rich history of development and significant demographic changes over the years. This research project delves into the historical evolution of Lagos State, tracing its development from pre-colonial times to the present day. The study explores the key factors that have influenced the growth and transformation of Lagos State, including its strategic location, economic activities, and political dynamics. Demographic changes in Lagos State have been profound, shaped by various historical events and socio-economic factors. The population of Lagos State has experienced significant growth due to factors such as rural-urban migration, natural increase, and economic opportunities in the state. The diverse demographic composition of Lagos State, with people from different ethnic backgrounds and cultural heritage, has contributed to its vibrant social fabric and cosmopolitan nature. The research project also examines the impact of urbanization on the development and demographic profile of Lagos State. As one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa, Lagos has faced challenges related to rapid urbanization, including inadequate infrastructure, housing shortages, and environmental degradation. These urbanization challenges have influenced the demographic trends in Lagos State, as the city continues to attract people from various parts of Nigeria and beyond. Furthermore, the study investigates the role of governance and urban planning policies in shaping the development trajectory of Lagos State. Effective governance and urban planning strategies are crucial for managing the demographic changes and ensuring sustainable development in Lagos State. The research project analyzes the policies and initiatives implemented by the government to address the developmental challenges facing Lagos State, such as improving infrastructure, providing affordable housing, and promoting inclusive growth. In conclusion, the history of development and demographic change in Lagos State is a dynamic narrative of growth, challenges, and opportunities. Understanding the historical context and demographic dynamics of Lagos State is essential for formulating effective development strategies and policies that address the needs of its diverse population. By examining the historical evolution and demographic trends in Lagos State, this research project aims to contribute to the body of knowledge on urban development and governance in Nigeria, with implications for other rapidly urbanizing regions in the country and beyond.

Project Overview

INTRODUCTION
1.1    Background of the Study
Lagos is the economic and social “nucleus” of Nigeria and the West African sub region, accounting for 32 per cent of national GDP. It is also one of the fastest-growing cities in the world; by 2015, it is expected to be the globe’s third largest city, according to UN estimates. Over the past decades, the city has had to contend with the challenges that accompanied staggering population growth rates. But since 1999, a consistent leadership has guided a reform process hinged on sustainable urban development. Now, Lagos’s transformation is emerging from its former status as an infamous, decaying metropolis into a modern, attractive, and functional city. Lagos is a classic example of a modern city, having transformed from a small farming and fishing village in the fifteenth century to a burgeoning megacity in 2010, when its population rose to over 10 million people. Until recently, this megacity was generally written about in a negative light and frequently satirized. Today, however, the face of Lagos is changing as a result of a series of transformations effected by a new style of governance adopted from 1999. In the past, scant attention was paid to land-use planning, basic infrastructure, and other public services needed to sustainably accommodate the city’s exploding population growth. One of the most visible manifestations of this was severe traffic congestion, which ultimately led to the relocation of Nigeria’s political capital from Lagos to Abuja in 1986. Now, new parks are just one sign that Lagos is on a new path towards sustainable urban development. Less visible signs of local government reform include improvements in basic city services and physical infrastructure. Since Nigeria returned to democratic governance in 1999, the successive governors of Lagos State have initiated and pursued a knowledge-based approach to critical reforms. Aside from promoting sustainable development, these reforms also span resource mobilisation, innovative and inclusive approaches to spatial planning principles, transportation upgrades, provision of educational health care services and facilities, and partnership building with the private sector in development. As a result of these reforms, Lagos is being transformed into a modern city that offers a high level of services provided by an increasingly efficient city administration.
1.2       Statement of the Problem
Demographic change is one of the key challenges today for urban development together with globalization, knowledge/technological shift, climate change and the development of the green economy, inclusiveness and poverty. Strategic solutions cannot be based on addressing one of these factors alone but must take into account the interplay of these elements within a particular local area of development (urban or rural). At the same time that there are important challenges to be addressed, there are also opportunities to be fostered such as the development of the “silver” economy of older entrepreneurs, the “white” economy for medical services for the elderly population, or the natural “green” advantage of shrinking areas. However, policy responses are still fragmented and there is no articulation of a sustainable answer to ensure and increase the quality of life in the light of these changes.
1.3     Objectives of the Study
1. To deduce the history of development and its impact on the demographic change of Lagos state.
2. To determine the impact of demographic change on Lagos state residents.
3. To create an overview of the history of the development and demographic change of Lagos state.
1.4     Research Questions
1. Does development impacts on the demographic change of Lagos state?
2. What is the impact of demographic change on Lagos state residents?
3.       To create an overview of the history of the development and demographic change of Lagos state.
1.5     Research Hypothesis
Ho: Development does not significantly impact on the demographic change of Lagos state.
Hi: Development significantly impacts on the demographic change of Lagos state.
1.6     Significance of the Study
Historical demography is an important component of demography. Its aim is to obtain detailed information about population changes and people’s demographic behaviour in the past through applying demographic methods to historical data. Historical demography has made a significant contribution to the development of demography. Through enriching the knowledge about demographic behaviour and population changes in the past, historical demography helps us to gain a better understanding of demographic trends in contemporary societies and future
1.7     Scope of the Study
This research work is on the history of development and demographic change in Lagos state. Lagos state is used as case study due to representative nature of Lagos state to other developing states in Nigeria and proximity to the researcher.
1.8     Limitations of the Study
This study has some limitations most especially in the area of data collection. Financial constraints as well as time available for the completion of the study are among other factors that would limit the scope of the study.
1.9     Definition of terms
Development: The act or process of growing or causing something to grow or become larger or more advanced.
Demography:The study of statistics such as births, deaths, income, or the incidence of disease, which illustrate the changing structure of human populations.
Change:An act or process through which something becomes different.
Lagos State:  Is a state located in the southwestern geopolitical zone of Nigeria.