The military factor in the rise and development of Lagos, 1863-1967

Abstract

This article examines the influence of the military on the rise and development of Lagos. It argues that the influence of the military on the transformation of Lagos from a fishing community to a commercial and industrial centre over several centuries was extensive. The original inhabitants of Lagos are the Aworis, wellknown for fishing, agriculture and trading. However, this group was conquered by Bini warriors in c.1550-78 which led to a new political institution that has survived to the present. The coming of the British and the conquest of Lagos (1851-1861) also brought Consular administration and the creation of a modern army. In 1914 Lagos became the capital city of Nigeria and the operational headquarters of the
Nigerian Regiment. Between 1960 and 1967, the defence of Lagos had reached a high point as the city performed a dual role as the state capital and capital city of Nigeria. Using the primary and secondary sources of data such as internet material and personal observations to substantiate its claim; the study establishes that military influence in Lagos contributed immensely to the safety of lives and property, political, and socio-economic developments. It concludes that robust civil-military relations in Lagos will forestall crime and criminality and also stimulate further developments in the state.