9 Things You’ll Only Understand If You Live in Surulere
Surulere isn’t just an area — it’s an identity. Tucked in the heart of Lagos Mainland, it’s a melting pot of vibes, hustle, nostalgia, and just the right amount of drama. From legendary football pitches to unexplainable NEPA behavior, Surulere has its own rhythm — and if you’ve ever lived here, you’ll definitely relate to these 9 unique experiences. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
1. Everyone Is a Lowkey Footballer 🏆
Whether it’s watching, playing, betting, or coaching from the sidelines — football is life. Even if you’re not playing, trust that every street has a Messi or Ronaldo in the making. Just pass by Teslim Balogun Stadium on a Saturday and you’ll see.
2. “We Have Light” Is Never Guaranteed 🔌
Your neighbor might shout “Up NEPA!” but you’ll still find yourself resetting your gen because the light didn’t reach your flat. Some houses even have “VIP light” — their side gets it, yours doesn’t. It’s science. Lagos science.
3. Mama Calabar Joints Everywhere 🍛
You don’t need to Google food spots here. Just follow the aroma of Afang soup and white rice. Every street has a Mama Calabar that serves large portions and small attitude — but we love her anyway.
4. The Street G-Wagon Family 🚘
There’s always that one mansion in the middle of bungalows. The gate is taller than the house next door, and on Sunday mornings, they roll out like royalty. No one knows what they do — and we don’t ask.
5. BRT Buses Are a Way of Life 🚌
Forget Uber. Real Surulere people know how to time BRTs like pros. And if you sit by the window and catch the breeze on a sunny day? That’s the Surulere version of soft life.
6. All Roads Lead to Shoprite (And You Know It) 🛍️
Agreed, there are other malls. But somehow, no matter your plans, you end up at the Surulere Shoprite at Leisure Mall. Whether it’s a date, small chops, or just “to chill,” it’s the area code headquarters.
7. You’ve Mastered the Pothole Slalom 🏃♂️💦
You don’t walk on Surulere roads — you dodge. Between water puddles, random ditches, and mysteriously open manholes, every walk is a mini Olympics. But hey, it builds character.
8. Sundays = Church, Rice, and Generators 🔊
On Sundays, you’ll hear gospel music from three different churches on your street. After service? White rice, stew, and diesel fumes. It’s the Surulere Sabbath tradition.
9. You Have a “Guy” for Everything 📞
Need to fix your phone, buy second-hand kicks, or get cheap Wi-Fi? You’ve got a guy. In fact, Surulere might have the highest number of plug-to-population ratio in all of Lagos.
👀 Final Thoughts:
Living in Surulere is a beautiful paradox. It’s chill, chaotic, loud, warm, and full of character. Whether you’re born and raised or just passing through, one thing’s for sure — Surulere will always leave a mark.