Lagos state was never Nigeria’s capital — Reno Omokri
“Lagos State was never Nigeria’s capital. Lagos Island was. The rest of the state was not…https://t.co/kQjIOg11RI pic.twitter.com/P9NkNb1lDP
— Nigerian Tribune (@nigeriantribune) July 29, 2025
Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has clarified that Lagos State was never Nigeria’s capital, stating only Lagos Island held that status until 1991.
Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has clarified that Lagos State was never Nigeria’s capital, stating only Lagos Island held that status until 1991. In a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Omokri addressed criticisms surrounding Lagos’ street renaming policy, accusing detractors of lacking historical context.
“Lagos State was never Nigeria’s capital. Lagos Island was. The rest of the state was not,” he asserted.
Omokri cited national symbols like Ahmadu Bello Way and Murtala Muhammed International Airport to show inclusive naming practices. He compared the situation to the City of London and Greater London, emphasizing that Lagos, like all states, was created to protect its indigenous culture.
“It is not the job of any state to promote the culture or heritage of another ethnic group,” he said.
Urging critics to consider relocating if displeased, he added, “Nigeria has 35 other states… you have options.”
He praised Lagos’ governance, highlighting timely salaries, public services, and infrastructure, calling it “one of the most progressive and livable cities in Nigeria.”