By George Omagbemi Sylvester
Lagos served as Nigeria’s administrative and political capital for 77 years before the federal government officially relocated the seat of power to Abuja in 1991.
The decision, although widely debated at the time, was driven by a combination of geographical, political, and infrastructural considerations aimed at national balance and long-term planning.
Historically, Lagos became the capital during the colonial era and remained so after independence in 1960.
However, by the 1970s, concerns grew over severe congestion, overpopulation, and uneven regional representation.
As Nigeria expanded, Lagos (located in the far southwestern edge of the country) was increasingly viewed as unsuitable for a neutral administrative capital.
In 1976, the military government led by General Murtala Mohammed established the Federal Capital Territory and initiated plans to build a new capital in Abuja, located at the geographic centre of Nigeria.
This location was chosen to promote neutrality among ethnic and regional groups, reduce administrative pressure on Lagos, and encourage balanced national development.
Abuja officially became the capital in December 1991 under General Ibrahim Babangida.
The transition marked one of the most significant administrative reorganisations in Nigeria’s history.
Today, Lagos remains the country’s commercial powerhouse, while Abuja functions as the political and administrative centre, reflecting a dual-capital dynamic that continues to shape Nigeria’s governance structure.
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