Nigeria doesn't ease you in gently. Lagos in particular arrives at full volume — traffic that defies description, energy you can feel physically, commerce happening in every available square metre, and human warmth that catches most visitors completely off guard. Here are the practical things that will help you travel here well.
1. Get a SIM Card at the Airport
Your first priority on arrival: buy a Nigerian SIM card. MTN and Airtel are the most reliable networks, available at kiosks in both Lagos Murtala Muhammed International and Abuja Nnamdi Azikiwe airports. Mobile data is cheap and fast by global standards and is essential for navigation, transport apps, and communication. Register your SIM with your passport — it's mandatory.
2. Use Bolt or Uber, Not Random Taxis
Both Bolt and Uber operate extensively in Lagos and Abuja. Use them. They provide fare estimates upfront, GPS tracking, and accountability. Negotiating with random taxis as a foreigner almost always results in prices 3–5x what a local would pay. If you must use an unmetered taxi, agree firmly on price before entering.
3. Lagos Traffic Is Real — Plan Accordingly
Lagos has some of the world's worst traffic congestion. A 15-km journey at the wrong time can take 2–3 hours. The worst periods are 7–10am and 4–8pm on weekdays. Build extreme buffers for airport transfers, meetings, and any time-sensitive plans. For short distances, consider the Lagos ferry service across the lagoon — it bypasses road traffic entirely and offers great views.
4. Dress Modestly Outside of Lagos
Lagos is cosmopolitan and fashion-forward — almost anything goes in terms of dress in upscale areas. Outside of Lagos (especially in northern states like Kano, Kaduna, or Katsina), dress conservatively: cover shoulders and knees, regardless of gender. In predominantly Muslim areas, this is a matter of respect and safety.
5. Naira Cash Is Still King for Daily Life
While card payments work in malls, hotels, and bigger restaurants, cash (Nigerian Naira, NGN) is required for street food, local markets, small shops, and most transport. Withdraw from bank ATMs (Zenith, GTBank, Access Bank are reliable) rather than standalone ATMs. Daily withdrawal limits apply — plan ahead if your budget requires significant cash.
6. Food Safety: Stick to Cooked and Hot
Nigerian street food is delicious and largely safe — the key is choosing food that's freshly cooked and served hot. Avoid pre-cut fruits from street vendors and tap water. Stick to bottled or sachet water ("pure water"). Well-established buka restaurants and local spots frequented by Nigerians are generally safe — busy places turn over their food quickly.
7. Understand How "African Time" Works — and When It Doesn't
Social events in Nigeria run late — a party scheduled for 6pm often starts at 9pm. This is well understood and accepted in social contexts. However, business appointments and formal meetings are generally expected to run closer to schedule, especially with international partners. When in doubt, ask a local contact what the real expected time is.
8. Photography: Ask First
Nigerians are generally welcoming to cameras but privacy is important. Always ask before photographing people, especially in markets, religious sites, and residential neighbourhoods. Military installations, government buildings, and airports are off-limits for photography — this is strictly enforced.
9. Health Precautions
- Malaria: Nigeria is high-risk. Take antimalarials (consult your doctor), use DEET repellent at dusk, sleep under a net or in air-conditioned rooms if possible.
- Yellow fever: A vaccination certificate is required for entry. Get it at least 10 days before travel.
- Water: Only bottled or filtered water. Brush teeth with bottled water.
- Travel insurance: Non-negotiable for Nigeria. Ensure it covers medical evacuation.
10. Victoria Island and Lekki in Lagos
If you're staying in Lagos and not visiting local contacts, base yourself in Victoria Island (VI) or Lekki Phase 1. These areas have good hotels, restaurants, and reliable security. They're also closest to the business and entertainment districts most visitors use. Ikeja (near the airport) is another solid option for shorter stays.
11. Night Moves: Lagos at Night Is Exceptional
Lagos arguably has the best nightlife in Africa. Afrobeats culture was born here — the clubs and live music venues on Victoria Island and in Lekki operate at a level that rivals any major global city for energy and quality. Dress well (Nigerians take going out seriously), go with a local if possible, and don't leave valuables in a vehicle. Start late — midnight is when things get interesting.
12. Bargaining Is Expected in Markets
In open-air markets, starting prices are almost always inflated for foreigners. Polite counter-offers at 40–50% of the asking price are normal. The vendor will meet you somewhere in the middle. Never be aggressive — bargaining should be pleasant. If you're in a hurry, the price you accept is the price you pay.
13. Register With Your Embassy
Before you travel to Nigeria, register with your country's embassy travel advisory service (STEP for Americans, FCDO registration for British citizens, etc.). This ensures your government knows you're in the country and can contact you in case of emergencies. Check your government's current travel advisory for specific regional security recommendations.
14. People Are the Best Part
Perhaps the most important practical tip: let go of the media-shaped anxiety many first-time visitors carry to Nigeria. Nigerians are extraordinarily sociable, entrepreneurial, funny, and warm. The country's complexity is real, but so is its spectacular humanity. The best experiences in Nigeria happen when you stop trying to be careful and start being present.