The Lagos State House of Assembly has reiterated its call for the National Assembly and the executive to grant the state special economic status in the ongoing constitutional review.
Stephen Ogundipe, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos on Sunday.
Ogundipe pointed out that there have been long-standing calls for Lagos to receive special status due to its role as the nation’s economic hub.
He emphasized that the state deserves this designation, given its history as the former capital of Nigeria, its extensive federal infrastructure, and its large population.
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The lawmaker argued that the state’s resources are insufficient to meet the needs of its population, which exceeds 22 million people from various regions, alongside the growing pressure on public services and amenities.
He said: “Lagos is generally regarded as a special state in Nigeria for various reasons. First, it was the capital of the federation until Dec. 12, 1991 ,when Abuja was made Nigeria’s capital.
“Secondly, Lagos has been so critical to the economic development of the country that it is generally regarded as the economic or commercial capital of Nigeria or even West Africa.
“The state plays host to so many economic and strategic agencies, including critical revenue organs.
“The most viable international airport is located in the state as well as the two most viable seaports in the country, accounting for over 90 per cent of all maritime trade.
“It is the main gateway to the country and the centre of financial services being the most viable capital of the money and capital markets in the country.
“Also, the collectible tax profile of the state for federal and state is second to none in the country, with the state being the largest single contributor of the now contentious Value Added Tax in the country, relative to other states and the Federal Capital Territory.”
The lawmaker, who referred to Lagos as a national asset, emphasized that the state’s benefits extend beyond the South West region, with all Nigerians reaping the rewards of its prosperity in one way or another.
Ogundipe stressed that Lagos requires legislative support from the National Assembly to achieve special status.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had recently called for Lagos to receive one percent of the revenue allocation formula.
Ogundipe further argued that the state’s economic standing and prosperity have a ripple effect, benefiting not only the South-West region but the entire country.