The first thing you notice when you spend some time in Lagos is that everybody is always rushing. From the bus stops to the markets, even when people are just crossing the road, it feels like there’s an invisible timer ticking somewhere.
After living here for a while, I started to understand why.
1. The cost of living is high
Lagos is expensive. Rent, food, transport, electricity; everything adds up quickly. Because of that, most people are constantly trying to get things done, close deals, meet targets, or move to the next opportunity. Bills don’t wait, so people can’t afford to slow down.
2. The city runs on tight schedules
People in Lagos often struggle to meet up with appointments, meetings, and deliveries. The traffic congestion doesn’t make it easier. Any little delay can cost you a huge deal or opportunity.
3. Too many people in one place
Lagos is crowded. Markets, bus stops, and offices are always so busy. Sometimes the rush you see is simply people trying to beat the crowd or get ahead before rush hour or traffic.
4. It becomes a habit
After a while, the rush becomes normal. Even when there’s no serious reason to rush, people still move fast because that’s the pace Lagos has trained them to live in.
If you’re new to Lagos, the speed of the city can feel overwhelming at first. But after some time, you might notice something funny; you start hurrying too, without even realizing it.
If you live in Lagos, have you noticed this as well? What do you think makes everyone move so fast here?
