A few hacks that have made life easier for me in Lagos:
1. Mind your business.
This sounds funny, but it’s serious advice. Lagos is chaotic and people will always try to one up you. I generally avoid talking to strangers on the road and just face my front.
2. Leave your house early.
Lagos traffic doesn’t respect anybody. A journey that should take 20 minutes can suddenly take 2 hours. Leaving early has saved me from a lot of stress and late arrivals.
3. Assess the bus or keke before entering.
I always take a few seconds to observe the driver and passengers before getting in. If something feels off, I wait for the next one. Trusting your instincts can save you a lot of trouble.
4. Use designated parks whenever possible.
I feel much safer entering public transportation from recognized bus parks than from random roadside stops.
5. Try to make friends: Lagos is a fun and exciting city. Try to make friends who will show you around the city and make memories.
These are all I can think of right now. If you have any more, please add them in the comments. It could help someone who’s new to the city.