Oludayo Banjo: A Quintessential Gem with a Heart of Simplicity and Preciousness

~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

Oludayo Banjo is a gracious and inspiring woman who personifies the values of womanhood and embodies beauty, as thoughtfully presented in this commemorative piece and tribute compiled by Oluwaseun Fabiyi, publisher of BethNews Media.

As noted by Oluwaseun Fabiyi, Oludayo Banjo is a woman of extraordinary beauty and substance, whose enduring influence will be treasured by her friends and associates.

Beholding this energetic woman, Oludayo Banjo, one sees a value that surpasses diamonds, gold, and oil wells, owing to her unwavering devotion to young generations within her community and beyond.

Oludayo Banjo is a woman of remarkable diligence and dedication, distinguished by her extraordinary blend of sisterly affection and angelic empathy, making her a treasured asset to humanity.

As I author this article in recognition of your achievements, you exemplify the characteristics of a dedicated, resplendent, and beautiful Black woman—a true pioneer, humble, spiritually fulfilled, prudent in your actions, and able to forgive even when provoked.

To conclude, I offer a heartfelt prayer on your behalf, seeking divine blessings for good health, happiness, and the successful fulfillment of your aspirations. May your endeavors be fruitful, yielding substantial returns without hindrance.

Oluwaseun Fabiyi, a seasoned journalist, writes from Lagos.

Makinde Congratulates Chief Bisi Akande

Hon. Abiola Makinde, representing the Ondo East/Ondo West federal constituency in the National Assembly, has congratulated Chief Bisi Akande, the former Interim National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC), on the Lifetime Achievement Award conferred on him by the prestigious Independent Newspaper. In a release personally signed by him, he described Chief Akande as a leader of leaders who has not only moved forward the progressive family in the southwest but in the entire country, Nigeria. He described the award as well deserved because of his uncommon display of integrity, dedication, and forthrightness.

Hon. Makinde who was the Director General of the Campaign for the successful election of Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa of Ondo State, asked Chief Bisi Akande, not to relent on his efforts to continue to elevate the progressive family and to make Nigeria better.

Lagos Men Spend a Staggering N661 Billion on Commercial Sex in 2024: A Shocking Economic Revelation

In an astonishing revelation that underscores the sheer scale of the commercial sex industry in Lagos State, a recent survey has estimated that men spent a jaw-dropping N661 billion in 2024 to satisfy their sexual urges through transactional sex. The findings, shared by X user Kayode MO (@kayomosebi), break down the expenditure into N329 billion paid directly to commercial sex workers—popularly referred to as ‘runs girls’—and an additional N332 billion spent on associated costs.

This eye-opening study was conducted to analyze the economic significance, market value, and key players within the sex trade industry in Lagos, exposing a complex network of financial transactions that extends far beyond the act itself.

The Massive Scope of Transactional Sex in Lagos

The statistics paint an eye-watering picture of the industry’s depth and reach. Of the 3.1 million sexually active men aged 20 to 69 in Lagos’ 20 local government areas, a staggering 1.86 million engage in transactional sex with non-partners. The average rate charged per encounter is pegged at N36,750, with the lowest being N20,000 and the most expensive going as high as N100,000 in Eti-Osa Local Government Area, home to affluent neighborhoods like Ikoyi, Victoria Island, and Lekki.

Other LGAs trailing Eti-Osa in high-cost transactional sex include Surulere, Kosofe, Alimosho, and Oshodi-Isolo, highlighting the widespread nature of the industry in both highbrow and middle-class regions.

Where Does the Money Go? The Economic Breakdown

A detailed analysis of the N329 billion revenue earned by commercial sex workers reveals the diverse ways in which these women allocate their earnings:

• N93 billion was spent on body and skin maintenance, including natural hair care.
• N62.5 billion went towards supporting family members, indicating that these earnings extend beyond individual indulgence.
• N62.5 billion was spent on lifestyle expenditures such as clothing, accessories, rent, car services, and fitness.
• N46 billion was invested in business ventures such as cryptocurrency, forex trading, and betting.
• N30 billion was split equally between healthcare and education, covering antibiotics, supplements, STD treatments, check-ups, Bachelor’s programs, coursework, and settlements.

The Hidden Costs: How Lagos Men Spent an Additional N332 Billion

Beyond the direct payments for sexual services, Lagos men also funneled an additional N332 billion into associated costs, shedding light on the broader economic impact of the industry.

• N150.6 billion was spent on entertainment, food, and hospitality—showcasing the elaborate social engagements that precede these transactions.
• Luxury gifts and expenses, including vacations, cars, and high-end items, dominated a significant portion of expenditures.
• N33.4 billion was funneled into drugs, sexual enhancers, stimulants, and sex accessories, indicating the widespread use of performance-enhancing substances within the industry.

A Billion-Dollar Shadow Economy

These staggering figures reveal an underground economy thriving within Lagos, where transactional sex is not just a practice but an economic powerhouse. The immense flow of money—rivaling some industries—highlights the urgent need for societal discourse on the implications of such an economy on morality, public health, and governance.

The survey findings have sparked intense debate, with some calling for regulatory oversight while others argue that the industry provides financial empowerment for thousands of young women. Regardless of perspective, one thing is clear: transactional sex in Lagos is far from a mere vice—it is a multi-billion naira enterprise influencing multiple sectors of the economy.

As authorities, economists, and social commentators digest these findings, the question remains: Is this industry a necessary evil or a sign of deeper socio-economic issues at play?