A recent survey has revealed that men in Lagos State spent an estimated N661 billion on commercial sex workers, often referred to as “runs girls,” in 2024.
The survey, shared by investor and investment banker Kayode MO (@kayomosebi), breaks down the spending, showing that N329 billion was paid directly to hire the sex workers, while an additional N332 billion went toward other associated expenses.
The research aimed to highlight the economic significance of commercial sex work, its market value, and the key players in the industry.
According to the survey, out of the 3.1 million sexually active men aged 20 to 69 across 20 local government areas in Lagos, approximately 1.86 million engaged in transactional sex with non-partners.
The average rate for sex workers was N36,750, with rates as low as N20,000. Eti-Osa Local Government Area, known for its wealth and business activity, had the highest rates, with transactional sex reaching up to N100,000. Other areas like Surulere, Kosofe, Alimosho, and Oshodi-Isolo followed closely behind.
The survey also detailed how the N329 billion earned by sex workers was spent. N93 billion went toward “body and skin maintenance products, including natural hair.” The workers also supported their families with N62.5 billion, while another N62.5 billion was allocated to “clothing, accessories, rent, car and e-hailing, fitness, and healthy living.” Investments in businesses like cryptocurrency, trading, forex, and betting totaled N46 billion. Health and education expenses, including treatments and schooling, amounted to N30 billion.
In addition to payments to the sex workers, Lagos men spent N332 billion on associated costs. Of this, N150.6 billion went toward “entertainment, food, and hospitality,” while “gifts” such as souvenirs, trips, cars, and luxury items accounted for a significant portion of these expenses. Drugs, sexual enhancers, stimulants, and sex accessories were also part of the expenditure, totaling N33.4 billion.
The survey provides a detailed look into the substantial financial impact of commercial sex work in Lagos.
