A recent survey has uncovered that in 2024, men in Lagos State collectively spent an estimated N661 billion on transactional sex with commercial sex workers, commonly referred to as “runs girls.”
The survey, shared by X user Kayode MO (@kayomosebi), breaks down the expenditure into two major components: N329 billion paid directly for hiring the sex workers and an additional N332 billion spent on related expenses.
The research aimed to assess the economic impact of the commercial sex industry, its market size, and the key participants involved.
Key Findings from the Survey
Among the 3.1 million sexually active men aged 20 to 69 across Lagos’ 20 local government areas, approximately 1.86 million engage in transactional sex. The survey indicates that the average fee for these services stands at N36,750, with a minimum charge of N20,000.
Eti-Osa local government area, which includes affluent neighborhoods such as Ikoyi, Victoria Island, and Lekki, recorded the highest rates, with prices reaching up to N100,000 per transaction. Other areas with relatively high costs for transactional sex include Surulere, Kosofe, Alimosho, and Oshodi-Isolo.
How Sex Workers Spent Their Earnings
Of the N329 billion earned by commercial sex workers, a significant portion was allocated to various expenditures:
N93 billion went toward beauty and body maintenance, including skincare and hair treatments.
N62.5 billion was used to support family members.
N62.5 billion was spent on clothing, accessories, rent, transportation, fitness, and wellness.
N46 billion was invested in businesses such as cryptocurrency, forex trading, and betting.
N30 billion was used for health and education, covering expenses for antibiotics, supplements, STD treatments, university programs, and coursework assistance.
Additional Spending by Lagos Men
Beyond direct payments for services, men in Lagos also incurred N332 billion in related expenses. These included:
N150.6 billion spent on entertainment, food, and hospitality.
Gifts such as souvenirs, luxury items, vacations, and cars for “premium” clients constituted a significant portion of these additional costs.
N33.4 billion was spent on stimulants, sexual enhancers, and related accessories.
The survey highlights the substantial economic influence of the commercial sex industry in Lagos and the widespread financial contributions made by both parties involved in transactional sex.
