ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with an overview of the geo-political origins of the country known as Nigeria, and some facts about the country. Lagos comprises the mainland, the islands and the city of Lagos, which is the largest urban center in Nigeria and the economic epicenter of the country. The Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria existed under British rule until 1960, when it gained independence. A Nigerian nationalist movement headed by Herbert Macaulay, and with members like Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikiwe, resulted in an intensified call for independence. The political leadership of the second republic was shared between two political parties, the National Party of Nigeria and the Nigerian People’s Party in a fragile coalition that collapsed almost as soon as it was formed. The nation heaved a collective sigh of relief when Abacha died in July 1998, and General Abdulsalami Abubakar took over the political leadership of Nigeria, in what can be described as the last military dictatorship.
