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Mar
MEN IN LAGOS SPENT N661 BILLION ON COMMERCIAL SEX WORK IN 2024, SURVEY FINDS
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CapitalTimesNews / 3 weeks
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- 3 min read
A recent survey has revealed that men in Lagos State spent an estimated N661 billion in 2024 on commercial sex workers, commonly referred to as “run girls.” The study, shared by X user Kayode MO (@kayomosebi), aimed to analyze the economic impact of the industry, highlighting its market value and key participants. Of the total amount, N329 billion was paid directly to sex workers, while N332 billion was spent on associated costs such as entertainment, gifts, and other expenses. The survey focused on 3.1 million sexually active men aged 20 to 69 across 20 local government areas in Lagos. It found that 1.86 million of these men engaged in transactional sex with non-partners. The average fee charged by sex workers was N36,750 per encounter, with rates starting as low as N20,000. However, in affluent areas like Eti-Osa, which includes Ikoyi, Victoria Island, and Lekki, costs could reach as high as N100,000. Other high-spending areas included Surulere, Kosofe, Alimosho, and Oshodi-Isolo. Sex workers reportedly spent a significant portion of their earnings on personal and family needs. Out of the N329 billion they earned, N93 billion went toward body and skin maintenance, including natural hair products. Another N62.5 billion was used to support their families, while an equal amount was spent on clothing, accessories, rent, transportation, fitness, and healthy living. Additionally, N46 billion was invested in businesses such as cryptocurrency trading, forex, and betting. Health and education also accounted for a notable share of their expenses, with N15 billion spent on each category. This included costs for antibiotics, supplements, STD treatments, medical check-ups, academic programs, coursework, and project writers. The survey highlighted the diverse ways in which sex workers allocated their income, showcasing their contributions to both personal development and the broader economy. On the other hand, the N332 billion spent by men on associated costs was largely driven by entertainment, food, and hospitality, which collectively accounted for N150.6 billion. Gifts from repeat customers, ranging from souvenirs and consumables to luxury items like cars and expense-paid vacations, represented a significant portion of these expenses. Furthermore, drugs, sexual enhancers, stimulators, and sex accessories accounted for N33.4 billion in spending during the same period. Kayode MO, who shared the survey, emphasized its goal of shedding light on the economic significance of commercial sex work in Lagos. “This survey provides a detailed look at the financial dynamics of the industry, revealing its deep connections to the broader economy,” he said. The findings underscore the substantial economic activity generated by the sector, highlighting its role as a major contributor to Lagos’ informal economy.
