Lagos, Nigeria, has been named the 14th largest city in the world, with a population of 16.5 million people.
The recognition places the bustling Nigerian megacity among the ranks of the globe’s most populous urban centres, including Tokyo, Delhi, and Shanghai.
Tokyo, the largest city globally, leads with 37.4 million residents, followed by Delhi at 29.3 million and Shanghai at 26.3 million.
Lagos thrives as a hub of economic activity and cultural diversity.
However, its rapid expansion has brought challenges such as overcrowding, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure.
In response to these challenges, Lagos has initiated ambitious projects like Eko Atlantic City, a modern development on reclaimed land designed to house 250,000 residents.
The project aims to alleviate overcrowding while establishing Lagos as a global economic powerhouse.
The United Nations predicts a significant rise in megacities worldwide, from 31 today to 43 by 2030. By 2050, two-thirds of the world’s population is expected to live in urban areas.
While challenges remain, Lagos’s growth highlights its potential to become a model of urban resilience and innovation, solidifying its place among the world’s largest and most influential cities.