Lagos, Nigeria, has been recognized as the richest city in West Africa, boasting an impressive 4,200 millionaires and two billionaires, according to the latest Africa Wealth Report 2024.
This bustling metropolis is not only the most populous city in Africa but also a significant economic hub on the continent.
Key Takeaways
- 4,200 millionaires and 2 billionaires reside in Lagos.
- Lagos is the 5th wealthiest city in Africa overall.
- The city is home to major corporations, including the Dangote Group.
- Despite its wealth, Lagos has seen a 48% decline in its millionaire population over the past decade.
Overview of Lagos’s Wealth
Lagos, once the capital of Nigeria until 1991, is now the economic powerhouse of the country. It serves as the base for the Nigerian Stock Exchange and hosts numerous multinational corporations.
The city is home to Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, whose wealth is estimated at over $23.9 billion.
The Africa Wealth Report 2024, published by Henley & Partners, highlights that nearly half of Nigeria’s wealthiest individuals reside in Lagos.
The report categorizes high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) as those with liquid, investable wealth exceeding $1 million.
Economic Landscape
Lagos’s economy is diverse, with key sectors including:
- Finance: Home to the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
- Manufacturing: A hub for various industries.
- Technology: Rapid growth in fintech and software development.
- Trade: Major commercial activities due to its strategic location.
Despite its economic significance, Lagos has faced challenges. The report indicates a significant decline in the millionaire population, attributed to factors such as currency depreciation and migration of wealthy individuals to more stable economies.
Comparison with Other Cities
In the broader context of African wealth, Lagos ranks as follows:
Rank
City
Country
Millionaires
Billionaires
1
Johannesburg
South Africa
12,300
2
2
Cape Town
South Africa
7,400
1
3
Cairo
Egypt
7,200
4
4
Nairobi
Kenya
4,400
0
5
Lagos
Nigeria
4,200
2
Future Projections
Looking ahead, the report forecasts a potential recovery and growth in the number of millionaires across Africa. Cities like Cape Town, Nairobi, and others are expected to see significant increases in their millionaire populations over the next decade.
The anticipated growth is driven by emerging industries such as fintech, eco-tourism, and green technology.
In conclusion, while Lagos currently stands as West Africa’s wealthiest city, it faces challenges that could impact its future economic landscape.
The ongoing trends in wealth distribution and migration will be crucial in shaping the city’s financial future.