In 2024, a comprehensive survey revealed that men in Lagos State expended an estimated ₦661 billion on transactional sex with 'runs girls', a local term for commercial sex workers. This substantial figure underscores the significant economic footprint of this clandestine industry within Nigeria's commercial hub.
Breakdown of Expenditures
The survey, shared by X user Kayode MO (@kayomosebi), details that out of the total ₦661 billion:
Direct Payments to Sex Workers: ₦329 billion was paid directly to the service providers.
Associated Costs: An additional ₦332 billion covered related expenses, including entertainment, food, hospitality, gifts, drugs, sexual enhancers, stimulators, and sex accessories.
Demographics and Pricing
The study focused on 3.1 million sexually active men aged between 20 and 69 across 20 local government areas in Lagos. Of these, approximately 1.86 million engaged in transactional sex with non-partners. The average rate charged by 'runs girls' was ₦36,750, with prices ranging from ₦20,000 to as high as ₦100,000 in affluent areas like Eti-Osa LGA, which encompasses neighborhoods such as Ikoyi, Victoria Island, and Lekki.
Spending Patterns of 'Runs Girls'
The ₦329 billion earned by the sex workers was allocated as follows:
Body and Skin Maintenance: ₦93 billion on beauty products and natural hair care.
Family Support: ₦62.5 billion contributed to their families.
Lifestyle Expenses: ₦62.5 billion on clothing, accessories, rent, transportation, fitness, and health.
Business Ventures: ₦46 billion invested in ventures like cryptocurrency trading, forex, and betting.
Health and Education: ₦15 billion each on medical needs and educational pursuits, including antibiotics, supplements, STD treatments, check-ups, academic programs, coursework, and related expenses.
Implications for Lagos State
This survey sheds light on a substantial informal economy operating within Lagos. The significant sums involved highlight the need for policymakers to consider the socio-economic factors driving this industry and its broader implications on public health, urban development, and economic planning.
Note: The information presented is based on a survey reported by The Guardian Nigeria.
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