Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Tinubu, has clarified his recent remarks describing Lagos State as a “no-man’s land.” He stressed that Lagos remains the historical and cultural homeland of the Yoruba people and that his comments had been misunderstood.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Daybreak programme on Wednesday, Bwala explained that the concentration of federal projects in Lagos should not be interpreted as favoritism. His earlier statement had triggered controversy and sparked widespread criticism.
Shortly after, in a post shared on his official social media handle, Bwala urged Nigerians not to misinterpret his words. He wrote:
> “Culturally, historically, and constitutionally, Lagos belongs to the Yoruba people, and that has never been in contention. The unique identity of Lagos as a Yoruba homeland is settled and beyond dispute.”
Bwala clarified that his reference to Lagos as a “no-man’s land” was not intended to undermine its Yoruba roots. Rather, he was highlighting the cosmopolitan nature of the state and its strategic importance in Nigeria’s growth.
He explained: “What I emphasized was the special place Lagos occupies in Nigeria and indeed West Africa — a city that, much like New York, Paris, or London, serves as the commercial nerve center of our economy.”
The presidential aide further noted that Lagos is unique because it offers opportunities for Nigerians of all backgrounds to thrive, reflecting the nation’s diversity while remaining firmly grounded in Yoruba heritage.
According to Bwala, Lagos’ crucial role in Nigeria’s economic and social life makes it essential for any administration to prioritize investments in its infrastructure.
He stated: “My argument was, therefore, and justifiably so, for massive investments in infrastructure to sustain the economic and social responsibilities Lagos has shouldered on behalf of Nigeria. Any President who truly seeks to succeed must critically support Lagos, not because it is ‘no-man’s land,’ but because it is the heartbeat of the nation’s development.”
