Welcome to Lagos — the city where chaos meets rhythm, and survival comes with its own special playbook.
If you’re new in town, don’t be fooled by the bright lights or the endless hustle. Lagos has its own culture — and most of it isn’t written in any book. These are the unspoken rules that every real Lagosian knows and lives by.
Whether you’re trying to blend in, avoid embarrassment, or just survive the madness, these 7 unwritten rules will guide you. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
1. Mind Your Business — Always
In Lagos, curiosity can be dangerous. You see two people arguing on the street? Keep walking. A danfo conductor is dragging a passenger? Stay out of it. Lagosians know when to look and when to face front. Mind your business and your peace will follow.
2. Never Rely on “I’m Coming”
If a Lagosian tells you, “I’m coming,” don’t assume they’re nearby. They could still be brushing their teeth in Ikorodu while you wait in Lekki. It’s code for “Don’t rush me” — not a time estimate. Adjust accordingly.
3. Always Have Change (Especially for Danfo or Keke)
In Lagos, asking a conductor for change is like asking a lion to go vegan. If you enter a bus with ₦1,000 for a ₦300 ride, prepare for war. Lagos street etiquette means you should come correct — or face verbal humiliation.
4. You Must Know Somebody That Knows Somebody
In this city, connections matter more than qualifications. You need a job? A house? Police bail? Who you sabi can get you in or out of anything. Lagos is a networking jungle, and your contacts are your currency.
5. Don’t Trust Google Maps Blindly
If Google Maps says 10 minutes from Surulere to Lekki during rush hour, laugh and close the app. Lagos traffic doesn’t obey logic. Ask a trusted okada rider or just brace yourself for delays. Always double the time — just in case.
6. Loud = Confidence
In Lagos, if you walk timidly, the city will swallow you. Speak up. Assert yourself. Whether you’re negotiating with a trader, entering a queue, or trying to cross the express, boldness is your armor.
7. Hustle is a Lifestyle
Every Lagosian has a side hustle — or three. Whether they’re selling clothes on Instagram, running errands, or flipping land deals, nobody dey carry last. Lagos rewards ambition, even if the struggle is real. Stay sharp, stay woke.
Final Thoughts
Lagos may not have a manual, but these unwritten rules are your cheat codes. Learn them, live by them, and you’ll find that beneath the madness is a rhythm you can thrive in.
Welcome to Eko. Shine your eyes.
