Lagos, the center of excellence and probably the most populated state in Nigeria filled with industrious people, lots of opportunities, exposure, etc. It can be a nice place to live--if you don’t leave your house.
You get to meet nice people and go to nice places, it has its upside and also some downsides. Lagos can get rough if you don't know your way around, I will be sharing some tips on surviving Lagos for those of you that may want to visit Lagos sometime.
When in Lagos in a crowded area, whatever you do, do not press your phone while walking, while it is dangerous because you can get hit by a vehicle. It is the easiest way for you to lose that phone.
There will always be people looking to take advantage and they will snatch that phone quicker than you can say hey. They don’t walk alone so once that phone is gone you’re never getting it back.
If for any reason you are taking public transport and there are a lot of people at the bus stop with only a few buses going your way, there is a high chance that people will struggle for whatever bus that comes. Always be alert in situations like this, because something always goes missing.
I advise that you do not join the struggle and just patiently wait for when most people are gone before you board a bus, although that may not work for you if you are in a hurry. So if you must, always put the important stuff in your bag and put the bag in front of you - guard it jealously. Never hold the important stuff, never leave them in your pocket.
If you are walking on the road and someone walks up to you with a story of how they lost their way, direct them to the nearest store to ask for help, do not engage especially if it is more than one person.
Chances are they are trying to rip you off. When you enter lagos for the first time most Lagosians will tell you shine your eyes. That is because you have to be smarter than whatever situation you find yourself in.
As a lady when you walk alone at night or in a secluded area and you pass a group of guys, chances are you will get catcalled, however, do not engage and also do not ignore.
What you need to do is to send a greeting their way without making eye contact. You could say a simple Good evening and increase your pace, but don't give them the opportunity to start a conversation.
If you are standing near the express with an overhead bridge nearby and you need to cross to the other side, always use that bridge and never cross the road on your own.
It doesn't matter how many people are standing with you looking like they want to cross the road, they don't. Most of them are probably waiting for buses. If you cross you'll get arrested on the other side and those people won't listen to your pleas.
There are a lot of other tips I can't write in one post, but whenever you're in Lagos always be ready to switch it up from calm and collected to wild. It gets crazy.
Thanks for stopping by❤️