Men in Lagos Spent N661 Billion on Commercial Sex Services, Says Repo
A Survey has revealed that men in Lagos State, Nigeria, spent an estimated ₦661 billion (around $431.69 million) on commercial sex services.
The amount includes ₦329 billion paid directly to sex workers, while the remaining ₦332 billion went towards other expenses like gifts, entertainment, and hospitality.
The survey, which looked into the spending habits of sexually active men in Lagos, found that of the 3.1 million men between the ages of 20 and 69, roughly 1.86 million engaged in transactional sex with people who were not their partners. On average, each encounter cost about ₦36,750, although prices varied widely across different parts of the city. In areas like Eti-Osa, for example, the price could soar to ₦100,000 per engagement.
These numbers paint a clear picture of how much money is circulating in the sex work industry in Lagos, shining a light on both the demand for such services and the significant financial flows supporting it.
Beyond the raw figures, the report speaks to deeper social and economic dynamics—issues of accessibility, power, and even cultural norms—that continue to shape the lives of those involved in and affected by this industry.
While the findings have sparked conversations about the role of sex work in Lagos’ economy, they also raise questions about the broader societal factors that contribute to its high demand.
It’s a reminder that, for many, these transactions represent not just a financial exchange but a part of an intricate and often hidden world that plays out in the shadows of the city’s bustling streets.
