Lagos is an ancient maritime town with more than 2,000 years of history. Once Nigeria’s capital, it had a population of a little less than 300,000 – the size of today’s Bradford.

But in just about five decades it has grown not only into the continent’s most populous city, but one of the top economic powerhouses. Currently Africa’s busiest metropolis, Lagos now has an estimated population of 21 million people. It holds an economic might that rivals that of Ghana and Morocco and contributes a healthy quota to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Here is a look into what this great city looked like half a century ago.

Broad Street

This famous location on Lagos Island is one of the oldest streets in Lagos, Nigeria. The “Secretariat” building was constructed in 1906. Children attended Eko Boys High School and Christ Church Cathedral Primary School, both on Broad Street. Till date, it has remained a commercial hub in one of the city’s central business districts.

Nigerian Airways

This company was founded in 1958 after the dissolution of West African Airways Corporation. It was managed by a number of foreign companies such as British Airways, KLM-Royal Dutch Airline and South African Airways. As a result of this, the cabin crew was dominated by foreigners. Most Nigerians at the time were not educated, while others lacked the training and expertise.

Lagos Lagoon

Contrary to speculation, the fairly shallow lagoon was not fully dominated by ocean-going ships, but by smaller barges and boats. It had a striking resemblance to western urban centres as it was highly populated and home to various commercial activities.

Federal Palace Hotel

A property of Sun International, the hotel is located in Victoria Island, Lagos. Established in 1959, it was earmarked as the hotel that would accommodate foreign dignitaries. The first luxury hotel in Nigeria, it remains one of the few tailored to international standards.

By Felicia Ochelle