Lagos men spend ₦661 billion on runs girls in 2024 – Survey reveals

A recent survey has revealed that in 2024, men in Lagos State spent an estimated ₦661 billion on transactional sex with commercial sex workers, commonly known as “runs girls.”

According to data shared by X user Kayode MO (@kayomosebi), ₦329 billion was spent directly on hiring sex workers, while an additional ₦332 billion covered associated expenses.

The study aimed to assess the economic significance of commercial sex work, its market value, and the key players involved.

Findings from the survey indicate that out of 3.1 million sexually active men aged 20 to 69 across Lagos’ 20 local government areas, 1.86 million engaged in transactional sex with non-partners.

The average fee charged per encounter was ₦36,750, with the lowest rate at ₦20,000. In Eti-Osa Local Government Area—home to affluent neighborhoods such as Ikoyi, Victoria Island, and Lekki—transactional sex could cost as much as ₦100,000. Other LGAs with high rates included Surulere, Kosofe, Alimosho, and Oshodi-Isolo.

Of the ₦329 billion earned by sex workers, ₦93 billion went toward body and skin care products, including natural hair maintenance. The report also highlighted that the women supported their families with ₦62.5 billion. Another ₦62.5 billion was spent on fashion, rent, transportation, and fitness, while ₦46 billion went into business ventures such as cryptocurrency, forex trading, and betting.

Health and education expenses accounted for ₦15 billion each, covering antibiotics, supplements, STD treatments, university programs, and coursework assistance.

Beyond direct payments for services, Lagos men also spent ₦332 billion on additional activities, including ₦150.6 billion on entertainment, food, and hospitality.

The survey further noted that gifts—including luxury items, vacations, and cars—were the most significant category of associated costs. Additionally, ₦33.4 billion was spent on drugs, sexual enhancers, and stimulators within the same period.