Balogun Market on Lagos Island is one of the biggest shopping hubs in Nigeria. If it exists, you’ll find it there. Clothes, shoes, fabrics, bags, household items. And yes, prices are usually cheaper than shopping online.

But here’s the catch.

The first price you hear is almost never the real price.

In Balogun, vendors often start with a price that’s higher or sometimes double what they actually want. That’s why bargaining is not optional. It’s a survival skill.

For example, if a dress is really worth ₦10,000, you might hear ₦15,000 or even ₦20,000 first. Don’t panic. This is normal.

How to bargain properly in Balogun Market:

• Inspect the item like you’re not impressed, even if you’re already imagining how good it’ll look on you.

• Drop the polished English. Pidgin or a bit of the seller’s language works better.

• Slash the price by half. If they say ₦15,000, respond with ₦7,500. That’s how you create room to meet in the middle.

• If the seller refuses to budge, gently drop the item and start walking away. This is the final test. Most times, they’ll call you back.

Balogun rule:

If you pay the first price, you paid tourist tax.

Save this before your next market run.

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