A recent survey has revealed that men in Lagos State spent an estimated N661 billion in 2024 on transactional sex, highlighting the significant economic footprint of the commercial sex industry.
According to data shared by social media user Kayode MO (@kayomosebi), out of the total amount spent, N329 billion was directly paid to sex workers, while an additional N332 billion covered associated costs, such as entertainment, gifts, and hospitality.
The survey, which aimed to assess the economic value of commercial sex work, analyzed spending habits among 3.1 million sexually active men aged 20 to 69 across the 20 local government areas of Lagos. The findings showed that 1.86 million men engaged in transactional sex with non-partners, with the average rate per encounter set at N36,750. The lowest reported rate was N20,000, while in Eti-Osa Local Government Area, prices could soar up to N100,000 due to its affluent neighborhoods like Ikoyi, Victoria Island, and Lekki.
Beyond direct payments for services, the survey detailed how sex workers allocated their earnings. N93 billion was spent on body and skin maintenance, while N62.5 billion went towards supporting their families. Another N62.5 billion covered expenses on clothing, rent, transportation, and fitness, while N46 billion was invested in crypto, forex, and betting.
Health and education also featured prominently, with N15 billion each spent on STD treatments, antibiotics, supplements, university education, and coursework.
On the client side, N332 billion was spent on related expenses, with N150.6 billion allocated to entertainment, food, and hospitality. Additionally, gifts and luxury items, including expense-paid vacations and cars, accounted for a major share. Purchases of drugs, sexual enhancers, and stimulators amounted to N33.4 billion.
The findings underscore the massive financial impact of transactional sex in Lagos, raising discussions about its role in the local economy and broader societal implications.
