Lagos is often described as the heartbeat of Nigeria’s economy, a city where opportunity meets pressure and ambition collides with survival. From tech founders in Yaba to traders in Balogun and real estate players in Lekki, Lagos entrepreneurs are known for one thing: their unique work habits.
Despite poor infrastructure, traffic congestion, and economic volatility, many Lagos business owners continue to thrive. Here are seven proven work habits that consistently set successful Lagos entrepreneurs apart. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
1. They Start Their Day Earlier Than Most People
One defining trait of Lagos entrepreneurs is early mornings. Many begin their day between 4:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., not necessarily to work immediately, but to plan.
Early hours are often used for:
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Strategy and planning
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Prayer or meditation
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Reviewing finances and goals
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Avoiding traffic delays later in the day
In a city where time can easily be lost on the road, starting early is a competitive advantage.
2. They Build Their Schedules Around Lagos Traffic
Unlike entrepreneurs in quieter cities, Lagos business owners design their workdays around traffic realities.
Common habits include:
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Scheduling meetings outside peak hours
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Working remotely during rush hours
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Running errands before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m.
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Using traffic time for calls and voice notes
For Lagos entrepreneurs, traffic is not an excuse — it is a factor to plan for.
3. They Work Six to Seven Days a Week
The typical Lagos entrepreneur does not operate on a Monday-to-Friday mindset. Many work six or even seven days a week, especially in sectors like:
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Retail and trading
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Entertainment
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Logistics
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Hospitality
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Real estate
Weekends are often peak business periods, not rest days. Rest is taken strategically, not routinely.
4. They Are Highly Street-Smart, Not Just Book-Smart
Formal education matters, but street intelligence matters more in Lagos.
Successful entrepreneurs understand:
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How to negotiate aggressively but respectfully
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How to read people quickly
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How to adapt pricing to market realities
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How to navigate informal systems
This practical intelligence allows them to survive in a business environment where rules often change without notice.
5. They Combine Multiple Income Streams
One income source is rarely enough in Lagos. Many entrepreneurs deliberately build multiple streams of income, such as:
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A main business plus side investments
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Physical businesses combined with online sales
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Local operations paired with diaspora clients
This habit protects them from sudden market shocks and keeps cash flow stable.
6. They Network Constantly — Everywhere
In Lagos, relationships are currency. Entrepreneurs network intentionally at:
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Social events
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Religious centres
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Gyms
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Airports
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Traffic hold-ups
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Online communities
Introductions often matter more than cold emails. Many business deals in Lagos begin with “I know someone who knows someone.”
7. They Are Mentally Tough and Emotionally Resilient
Perhaps the most important habit is mental resilience.
Lagos entrepreneurs face:
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Policy uncertainty
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Rising costs
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Unstable power supply
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Payment delays
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Public criticism
Yet they continue. Failure is seen as a lesson, not a final outcome. Emotional strength is not optional — it is survival equipment.
Why Lagos Entrepreneurs Stand Out Globally
What makes Lagos entrepreneurs unique is not just hustle, but adaptability. They succeed in one of Africa’s toughest business environments, making them competitive anywhere in the world.
Their habits are shaped by necessity, pressure, and ambition — and that combination continues to produce some of Nigeria’s most influential business leaders.