Victoria Island, now a bustling financial and residential hub in Lagos, Nigeria, was originally a true island, completely surrounded by water. It was bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the south, the Lagos Lagoon to the north, Five Cowrie Creek to the west, and swamps to the east. Historically, a large portion of the island was under the jurisdiction of the Oniru chieft aincy family , with local tenants inhabiting the land. However, in 1948, the Lagos Executive Development Board acquired the land from the Oniru family, paying £250,000 in compensation, along with an additional £150,000 for the displacement of inhabitants and the destruction of shrines. The displaced residents were later resettled in Maroko village, which would later play a significant role in the island’s transformation.
Victoria Island remained a standalone island until the colonial government initiated a land reclamation project. The primary motivation behind this effort was to reduce mosquito breeding areas in the eastern swamps. As a result, the swamps were gradually filled in, creating a land bridge that connected Victoria Island to the Lekki Peninsula, effectively ending its status as a true island.
Following Nigeria’s independence in 1960, successive state governments continued expanding infrastructure in the area. One of the most significant developments was the construction of a highway linking Victoria Island to Epe, which further integrated the island into Lagos’ growing urban landscape.
Originally designated as a high-end residential district, Victoria Island has evolved into one of Nigeria’s busiest centers for banking, commerce, and diplomacy. Many major Nigerian and international corporations have established their headquarters on the island, making it a key player in West African business and finance. Despite its commercial success, longtime residents have expressed concerns about overcrowding, traffic congestion, and failing infrastructure. The influx of businesses has altered the island’s once-serene atmosphere, with street traders catering to the growing workforce. In response to these challenges, new urban development projects have emerged, including the Eko Atlantic City, a massive land reclamation project designed to expand Lagos’ coastline and create a futuristic business district adjacent to Victoria Island.
Victoria Island’s transformation from a secluded island to a thriving urban center is a testament to Lagos’ rapid growth and development. From its early days as a colonial settlement to its current status as a commercial powerhouse, the island continues to evolve, shaping the future of Nigeria’s economic landscape.
