27/09/2024
Lagos is known as the city that never sleeps, Nigeria’s busy economic hub, and the land of endless hustle. To a first time visitor, Lagos is that city with different views and tales.
MIXED TALE OF THE GOOD AND THE BAD OF ONE CITY
Before coming to Lagos, the stories I have heard about Lagos are as different as its people. “Everything happens in Lagos.” “Ah, Lagos? It’s dangerous; everyone is angry!”
Others come in cheery, “Come to Lagos! You’ll have so much fun; there’s always something to do!”
These were just some of the things I had heard about Lagos before I got the chance to see it for myself.
Even though I heard the stories, it didn’t bother me because I never thought I would visit Lagos, even for a short time. What will have to go and do in Lagos? For what now?
However, when the chance finally came, I had no choice, but to come. I was excited, curious, and nervous. What would it really be like? Would it match everything I had heard, good or bad?
LAGOS, HERE I COME!
The road trip to Lagos was smooth, which helped calm my nerves a bit. But when I arrived at the bus park, nothing could have prepared me for the chaos. So many people—bus drivers shouting for passengers, vendors selling food, and travellers rushing everywhere—it was overwhelming.
My heart sank a little. I had heard so many stories of theft, scams, and getting lost in crowded places. I quietly prayed, hoping I wouldn’t become one of those stories.
Though my arrival at the Bus terminal was baffling, I didn’t really have to bother much again as the day went by. As the days went by, my fears about Lagos began to disappear. Yes, it’s chaotic and always busy, but I discovered another side to it.
EXAGGERATED VIEWS?
Was Lagos really a dangerous place? I didn’t think it was entirely true. Like any big city, there are risks, but it wasn’t as scary as I thought. And as for the “anger” of Lagosians? I saw it differently.
Lagos is a place where the hustle never stops. Everyone is always moving fast, waking up early to fight through hours of traffic and deal with the demands of work. It’s no surprise that people can seem frustrated. Living in a city that constantly pushes you can be tiring. But behind the serious faces and rushed steps, I saw strength, determination, and a strong community spirit.
As someone who spent most of her life in Abuja, where things are much quieter, the roads less busy, and life slower, adjusting to Lagos was tough. But I got used to it. My internship was a great learning experience, and I made the most of it. I even explored a few places. My friend and I visited an ice cream spot called Waffle Monster, and we had a great time. We also went to a few other places. Well, I didn’t get to eat the famous Agege bread, instead, it was Bokku bread. The bread was delicious!
MY CONCLUSIONS
Even though I missed the calm of Abuja and the fact that I didn’t have to be so alert all the time, I found Lagos exciting and full of life. The non-stop activity was thrilling, even though I had to stay cautious.
When my short, 6 weeks of internship, in Lagos came to an end, I realized the city wasn’t as scary as I had thought. Sure, I stayed aware of my surroundings, but my experience was far better than I expected. In fact, I had fun. Lagos, with all its hustle and occasional stress, turned out to be a place I could appreciate.
In the end, Lagos is a city of extremes—intense, exciting, and challenging. It may not be for everyone, but if you give it a chance, Lagos might surprise you.
Post script:
Perhaps I stayed in a safe and lovely neighbourhood? It doesn’t matter. I have experienced Lagos and the memories I have will be with me for a long time.
Would I be visiting Lagos again? Not anytime soon. Maybe not for a long while!
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>By Omojo Faruna< Lagos is known as the city that never sleeps, Nigeria’s busy economic hub, and the land of endless hustle. To a first time visitor, Lagos is that city with different views a…
