Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has again intensified the call for Lagos to be accorded a Special Status, insisting that the demand is rooted in facts, data and global best practices rather than sentiment. The governor made this position clear during the opening session of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission’s (RMAFC) on-the-spot assessment visit to the state on Tuesday. He was represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat.
Sanwo-Olu argued that Lagos carries a unique economic weight unmatched by any other Nigerian state. As the nation’s commercial capital, Lagos hosts the largest concentration of industries, handles the bulk of Nigeria’s maritime traffic, and continues to experience massive daily inflows of people seeking opportunities. This rapid population growth, he explained, puts enormous pressure on the state’s infrastructure, public services and environmental management systems.
The governor noted that the state government has consistently invested heavily in transport systems, housing, security, waste management, and road networks to keep the city functioning. However, the scale of Lagos’ responsibilities far exceeds its statutory revenue allocations. He emphasized that the financial burden borne by Lagos directly contributes to Nigeria’s overall economic stability, making a compelling case for a special federal support framework.
According to Sanwo-Olu, global cities with similar economic profiles—such as major commercial hubs and mega-urban centres—receive targeted federal intervention to maintain efficiency and competitiveness. Lagos, he argued, deserves the same treatment to ensure it continues to drive national economic growth.
He expressed optimism that the RMAFC’s visit would provide an opportunity for the commission to witness first-hand the infrastructural strain and demographic challenges confronting the state. The governor appealed for sincere consideration of Lagos’ request, saying that granting Special Status would not only benefit the state but also enhance Nigeria’s economic resilience and long-term development.
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and collaboration, noting that Lagos is ready to partner with federal agencies to design sustainable funding models that reflect the city’s strategic role in the nation’s prosperity
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