Inside Magboro’s torrid journey to becoming an elite Lagos suburb

At dawn, the roads leading out of Magboro come alive – vehicle horns blaring, motorcycles speeding through rough roads, and weary commuters bracing for another long journey into Lagos. For many, this daily grind is the price of a quieter, more affordable life outside the metropolis.

Geographically, Magboro lies on the almost indistinguishable border between Ogun and Lagos States. However, rapid urbanisation has blurred the lines, bringing it within the precincts of what some might call greater Lagos.

Once a sleepy town in the Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, Magboro has rapidly transformed into a haven for those seeking relief from the chaos of Lagos – while remaining within reach of its opportunities. 

But despite its appeal, the community grapples with poor road networks and unreliable power supply, daily struggles that test the resilience of its residents.

It was on my second trip there that I truly understood the phrase ‘survival of the fittest.’ The roads were a maz…