A major study by Numbeo ranks Lagos, Nigeria, as the city with the worst quality of life among 178 major cities globally. This Numbeo Quality of Life Index considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. Lagos scored a low 45.3, meaning that challenges like high Poverty and uneven income distribution are being experienced there. This creates limited access to basic necessities, especially in areas with poor infrastructure. Rapid population growth also strains the city’s resources, leading to traffic congestion and limited public transportation options.
Limited Investment in road maintenance and public transport further restricts mobility and economic productivity. Environmental concerns, such as high air and Water Pollution from industrial activities and poor waste management, are prevalent. Crime rates, including petty theft, armed robbery, and cybercrime, put residents’ safety into question and negatively impact perceptions of living and business conditions in Lagos. Access to quality healthcare and Education remains restricted as well, with overcrowded public facilities and disparities in educational quality affecting social mobility. Notably, Lagos is ranked 8th in Africa for healthcare, indicating some improvements in the city’s healthcare system.
Yet the city remains culturally and economically alive.
According to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Lagos is the second-worst city to live in among 172 cities globally, based on living conditions, safety, infrastructure, and access to basic services. Despite these challenges, Lagos remains culturally and economically vibrant, known for its dynamic arts, music scene, and entrepreneurial spirit. It reflects its residents’ resilience and communal ideals amidst adversity. Other cities with low quality of life include Tehran, Iran (45.3); Manila, Philippines (55.1); Dhaka, Bangladesh (62.4); Colombo, Sri Lanka (68.0); Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (71.5); Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (72.5); Beirut, Lebanon (73.3); Cairo, Egypt (75.9); and Kathmandu, Nepal (77.3).
To improve the quality of life in Lagos, the state government must, as a matter of necessity, tackle poverty and income inequality. The government should invest in social Welfare programs and provide support for low-income families. Expanding access to education and Vocational Training can help people gain skills needed for better-paying jobs. Encouraging local businesses and attracting foreign investments can also create more employment opportunities. Doing this will surely benefit all residents of Lagos and, by extension, all citizens of Nigeria.
Fixing crime and environmental issues will help with the scorecard.
Again, infrastructural issues must be addressed. The government needs to invest in building and maintaining roads, bridges, and public transportation systems. Old ones need to be renovated while new ones need to be built. Developing a reliable public transport network can reduce traffic congestion and shorten times spent on the road. Furthermore, upgrading the city’s Infrastructure to handle rapid Urbanization will prevent future strain on infrastructural resources. Implementing smart city technologies can make urban services efficient and make daily life easier for residents.
Then, the Lagos State Government must tackle environmental problems. This includes reducing air and water Pollution through stricter regulations on industrial activities and better Waste Management practices. Encouraging the use of Renewable Energy sources and promoting green spaces within the city can improve air quality and provide residents with recreational areas. Public awareness campaigns on environmental conservation can also help promote a Culture of sustainability. In other words, people need to be educated on what environmental conservation is as well as how to achieve it.
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Of course, improving safety and reducing crime rates should be a priority as it will further cement Lagos as a safe place for investment and other economic activities. Increasing the presence of law enforcement in high-crime areas and providing better training and resources for the police can help combat crime. Community policing initiatives can also bridge trust between residents and law enforcement, making it easier to address safety concerns. Additionally, investing in technology, such as surveillance systems, can aid in crime prevention and response. Ensuring that residents feel safe is vital for both their well-being and the city’s reputation.