A new report ranks Lagos as Nigeria’s top state for ease of doing business, citing strong infrastructure and governance while highlighting persistent regional and systemic challenges.
Lagos State has been ranked the best state for doing business in Nigeria, according to a new report unveiled at the Reform and Diplomatic Roundtable 2026 in Abuja. The assessment, conducted by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council and its partners, placed Lagos first due to its strong regulatory framework, infrastructure, and institutional transparency.
The report ranked Kaduna, Oyo, the FCT, Ogun, Enugu, Plateau, Ekiti, Kano, and Nasarawa behind Lagos. It noted that Nigeria’s economic growth increasingly depends on how state governments address local business challenges, particularly in areas such as electricity, taxation, digital connectivity, and access to land and justice systems.
While Lagos stood out for its market access, skilled workforce, and efficient commercial systems, the report highlighted challenges including touting, weak investor support systems, and uneven digital connectivity. It also revealed regional disparities, with no states from the North-East and South-South making the top 10, and recommended reforms such as improved infrastructure, digitalisation, and better access to credit.
Top 10 States for Ease of Doing Business (Nigeria):
- Lagos State
- Kaduna State
- Oyo State
- Federal Capital Territory
- Ogun State
- Enugu State
- Plateau State
- Ekiti State
- Kano State
- Nasarawa State