Is there a step-wise migration in Nigeria?: A case study of the migrational histories of migrants in Lagos

The paper sets out to test whether or not the movement pattern of people in Nigeria is step-wise. It examines the spatial order in the country and the movement pattern of people. It then analysizes the survey data and tests for the validity of step-wise migration in the country. The findings show that step-wise migration cannot adequately describe all the patterns observed. The multistep moves of the people is an indication of the complexity of factors influencing human mobility behaviour. Moreover, the preponderance of circuitory movement pattern is an indication of the socio-cultural life of the people. The urban-urban movement pattern that was observed is used as a basis for advocating for the development of intermediate urban centres, in addition to the rural areas. This is seen as a way of alleviating the increasing convergence of people on Lagos.