And if you live in Lagos, you already know how things can be. Today you’re chatting all day, tomorrow could be a different story. So it’s better to move with sense from the beginning.

Here’s what you should never give out too early:

• Your house address

No matter how sweet the vibe is, avoid statements like “I stay around Lekki Phase 1, close to…” or “I’m always at home in Yaba.” Lagos is too exposed for that. If you want to meet, pick a public place like a restaurant, lounge, or even a busy mall.

• Your office address

It’s okay to say “I work on the Island” or “I’m based in Ikeja,” but don’t go into exact details. Not everyone needs to know your building or office floor. Keep it general until there’s real trust.

• Personal family information

You can gist about family, but don’t go too deep too early. Details about where they live, what they do, or personal issues should come later. Not everybody asking questions is just “trying to know you better.”

• Your daily routine

Be careful how you share your movements. Saying things like “I leave the house by 6am every day” or “I’m always at the gym by 7pm” makes you predictable. In Lagos, it’s better to keep some things private.

• Financial details

Questions like “How much do you earn?” or “How much is your rent?” can come up casually, but you don’t owe anyone those answers. Money conversations should not happen in the early stage.

• Private photos or videos

No matter how close you think you are or how long you’ve been talking, protect your privacy. Once you send it, you can’t control where it goes.

Dating in Lagos is not something to do carelessly. You can meet amazing people, but you also have to be aware.

Not everything is for sharing. Not everyone deserves full access to your life immediately.

Take your time, observe well, and protect yourself.

Better safe than “had I known.”

Have other tips? Drop them in the comments below.