I know I saw movies and read books with an element of gentrification, but didn't think it applied to my immediate environment until I had a conversation with Chef Lu on his rooftop one day. After deep dives, I am finally writing this tale of two cities: one with memories of an old Lagos and one in our new realities, setting the pace for transformation. What did you hear about this city?

Lagos, Nigeria’s sprawling and ever-expanding metropolis, is a city in the middle of a profound transformation. While much has been said about the development of Lagos Island and its upscale neighborhoods, Lagos Mainland, where the heart of everyday Lagosians beats, is also witnessing seismic shifts. These changes are reshaping the city's social and physical landscape with a cascade of domino effects taking place.

In the midst of this, gentrification—when wealthier individuals move into less affluent areas, driving up property values and altering the cultural fabric—has become a key factor in this transition. This story, however, isn’t just about property values or the growth of real estate. It’s about people—the generations that have called Lagos Mainland home, and the newcomers drawn to the area’s revitalization. The tale of gentrification in Lagos Mainland is as much about the class differences and challenges as it is about the opportunities ahead. The Lagos you knew 3 years ago, is changing.

The Transformation of Lagos Mainland

Historically, Lagos Mainland was home to families with deep roots. Streets in areas like Yaba and Surulere echoed with the sounds of children who grew up, went to school, and eventually started their own families there. Many of these neighborhoods have retained their identity for decades, with multigenerational households forming the backbone of these communities.

However, recent years have brought about a shift. The influx of a new class of people with a different kind of wealth has transformed the landscape, both literally and figuratively. Once modest homes and family-run stores are being replaced by luxury apartments, chic cafes, and trendy retail spaces. Some traditional landmarks that shaped the identity of the neighborhoods have been demolished to make way for modern residences and commercial buildings.

For some long-time residents, it’s a bittersweet experience. They have watched their familiar surroundings evolve beyond recognition, but at the same time, they are witnessing new infrastructure and opportunities emerge. The challenges, however, are undeniable.

Class Differences and Displacement

The gentrification of Lagos Mainland reflects the class divide that is widening across Lagos. Once the domain of the working and middle class, the Mainland is becoming an attractive destination for wealthier Lagosians looking to escape the Island’s congestion. This shift is leading to higher property values, which in turn is pricing out long-standing residents.

Take, for instance, a family that has lived in Surulere for three generations. Their family home, once a symbol of stability and community, is now dwarfed by more finesse and taller apartments. Property taxes and rent in the area have skyrocketed, and the family now faces the stark reality of relocation. Their memories—of weddings, graduations, and decades of daily life—are tied to a place they can no longer afford to live in. On the other hand, the influx of wealthier residents brings a certain vitality. Upscale restaurants and modern recreational spaces offer new experiences, but for the original inhabitants, these luxuries often feel out of reach - hence, a class difference.

The original residents of the affected areas are witnessing young people buy Akara through food delivery apps rather than the old woman who sells Akara down the road. They're seeing a generation of luxury car owners and a tech generation very distinct from theirs. A new class of residents who are transforming their community before their eyes - as everything they once knew becomes a memory.

Opportunities and Growth

Despite the challenges, the gentrification of Lagos Mainland also offers potential for growth. The area is seeing an influx of investment in infrastructure—roads are being repaved, power supply is more consistent, and access to modern conveniences is improving. This development, while beneficial, raises the question: who benefits from it?

For the newcomers, Lagos Mainland presents an opportunity to live in a vibrant part of the city that feels both familiar and novel. The area’s rich history and culture appeal to those seeking authenticity, while new developments offer the luxury they desire. This blend of old and new creates a dynamic atmosphere, where traditional street vendors set up shop near high-end boutiques. Yet, for the residents who have always called Lagos Mainland home, the rising living costs and property prices represent a double-edged sword. While economic activity increases, so do the risks of displacement.

The Changing Real Estate Landscape

The real estate market on Lagos Mainland has never been more active. With the boom in gentrification, property developers have seized the opportunity to build modern residential units. Areas like Yaba, once known for its affordability and proximity to the University of Lagos, are now hotbeds for real estate speculation. However, with this shift comes the pressing issue of affordable housing. As new developments spring up, affordable options for lower-income families are becoming scarce. Policymakers are being urged to address this imbalance, ensuring that long-time residents aren’t pushed to the outskirts of the city or into poorer living conditions.

Lagos and the Broader African Context

Gentrification is not unique to Lagos. Across Africa, cities are experiencing rapid urbanization, with economic growth driving investment in infrastructure and real estate. From Nairobi to Accra, the story is similar: vibrant, historic neighborhoods are transforming to accommodate the rising middle class and expatriates.

In Nigeria, this shift is both a reflection of the nation’s growing economy and a warning about the inequalities it can exacerbate. As roads are widened and gleaming towers rise, the question remains: how can this progress benefit everyone, rather than just the privileged few?

A Few Questions...

• To manage the complexities of gentrification, how can the needs and voices of its residents be prioritized?
• How can we safeguard the historic landmarks and architecture that define Lagos Mainland, so future generations can understand its roots?
• As property values rise, are there still homes accessible to low-income families?
• Are the senior residents involved in the planning process to ensure that new developments enhance, rather than erase, the character of their neighborhoods?
• How can interaction be encouraged between new and long-time residents to build inclusive communities, fostering mutual respect and understanding?

Navigating the Future

Gentrification in Lagos Mainland is a double-edged sword—on one hand, it brings much-needed investment and modernization, and on the other, it threatens the displacement of long-time residents and the erasure of the city’s unique cultural fabric. As Lagos continues to grow, its development must be people-centered. Through thoughtful planning and inclusive policies, the city can ensure that the benefits of gentrification reach everyone and that the human stories that define its Mainland neighborhoods are preserved for generations to come.