I wasn’t born or bred in Lagos, I was a regular visitor, at least before I made it my home. Those days, going to Lagos was like traveling out of the country for me. It is only right i discuss some of the reasons to love Lagos.
Every holiday, I would always look forward to coming here. It was and is still so beautiful; the ocean view as we drive by on the third Mainland Bridge was something I was always eager to experience, and I would sometimes say to myself that one day this will be my home and I will get wealthy here. Today, I can proudly say I am a Lagosian building my dreams in a land of opportunities.
Apart from the beautiful tall buildings and the ocean views, there is this good spirit or vibe in Lagos that once you catch it, you might never be the same. It’s just so different from the other states I have been to or lived in. The point of all these is that we love Lagos – yes, we, I know I am speaking on your behalf – and these are some of the reasons;
1. The Entrepreneurial Spirit
“I no come Lagos com count bridge!” – you hear this pidgin expression almost every time – it is probably something you have said before, meaning “ I am here to make money and not waste my time on distractions.” That expression is the summary of what the Lagos ‘hustle’ is all about. An average Lagosian wakes up as early as 4 am to start the day’s activities; by that time, you would already hear the sounds of moving vehicles and feel the pulse of the people.
People say anyone can make it in Lagos, and that is so true. Lagosians have this mentality of ‘I must make it’ which I find to be very inspiring
2. Land of Opportunities
Lagos is truly a land of opportunities for many Nigerians. It is the commercial capital of Nigeria and also one of the major financial hubs in Africa.
With a variety of businesses both local and international in different industries and a large population to patronize such businesses, it is relatively easier for most people to get rich in Lagos than in other states. According to Dailytrust, Lagos is one of the world’s fastest-growing cities and the gateway for 80% of Nigeria’s exports.
No matter where you are from, even if you are not a Nigeria, you can do business and strive. I know people from different parts of Nigeria, moved to Lagos and achieved success in a few years legitimately. Lagos welcomes everyone regardless of your religion, race or tribe.
3. The People
The city accommodates everyone, so you get to meet interesting people with different cultural backgrounds here. Trust me; these people make Lagos an interesting place to live in.
4. The Nightlife
The city has one of the most exciting nightlife in all of Nigeria. As much as Lagosians work hard, we also love to party, and we do that so well.
There are many shows and parties to attend, and if these are not your thing but you would love to hang out with friends and colleagues after a long day of work, there are different amazing places to hangout. There is never a dull moment in the city of Lagos.
5. The restaurants
You can find all kinds of restaurants here. Whether it’s Intercontinental, Chinese, Thai, or local cuisines, you will find it here. Whatever you crave, you will always find in Lagos.
Our city has it’s challenges, but it remains one of the best cities to live if not the best in Nigeria. It is a city you and I have come to love.
What else do you love about Lagos? Please share. “Ilu Eko o ni baje ooo…”