Analysing Gentrification Processes and Displacement Effects in Lagos Island Residential Neighbourhoods

This study analyses gentrification processes and associated population displacement effects in residential neighbourhoods of Lagos Island, South West Nigeria, examining how commercial and residential property market upgrading affects long-term lower-income residents and the urban estate management challenges these dynamics create. Lagos Island's traditional residential neighbourhoods are experiencing intensifying real estate development pressure as their central location, cultural heritage, and business proximity attract investment from wealthier buyers and commercial operators, triggering residential displacement of established communities. A mixed-methods longitudinal research design tracks property market changes and community conditions across three Lagos Island neighbourhoods over a five-year period. Quantitative elements include property value trend analysis from estate surveyor data, land use change mapping using satellite imagery, and a household survey of 250 current residents documenting tenure history, rental changes, and displacement experiences. Qualitative interviews with 30 community leaders, 20 estate developers, and 10 state planning officials explore the institutional dimensions of gentrification. Results confirm progressive gentrification in Onikan and around Balogun Market areas, with residential rental values increasing 65 percent over five years, substantially above wage growth. Long-term tenants in gentrifying areas face acute displacement risk from rent escalation and landlord-initiated lease termination to enable commercial redevelopment. Cultural and heritage structures are under conversion pressure. Community-level social capital erosion accompanies physical displacement. Recommendations include introducing tenant protection provisions in Lagos State tenancy law, an affordable housing requirement for major commercial redevelopment approvals, and a Lagos Island heritage conservation zone designation. Keywords: gentrification, displacement, Lagos Island, property market, urban change.