NIGERIA – Page 3 – #SASSYFUNKE

June 21, 2017September 21, 2018

THE ULTIMATE LAGOS BUCKET LIST

Lagos (Nigeria) is a city bustling with so much energy and vibes. Lagosians are a friendly and vibrant bunch and our energy is contagious. Having lived here for many years as a child and more recently as a working adult, I can say that their are few places in the world like Lagos. Below is my Lagos bucket list a.k.a gems and experiences that stand out to me and that hopefully will help you enjoy your time here (however brief or long you time in Lagos may be).

1. Walk across the Lekki-Ikoyi bridge at night

This 1.36km bridge connecting Lekki and Ikoyi is best seen at night where the beauty of the bridge truly shines. Expect to find runners and walkers getting their fitness sessions on in the evening.

2. Visit Yellow Chilli restaurant and order their “Seafood okro”

This is for all foodies. Yellow chilli restaurant is where you find authentic Nigeria dishes at affordable prices in a lovely african-inspired setting. The seafood okra is no doubt their signature dish and it will keep you coming back for more.

3. Visit the Lekki Arts & Craft market

Here you will find authentic arts and crafts from every culture in Nigeria (whilst also getting a history lesson). From leather to painting to metal work, prepare to find unique gems in this market. This market will leave you in awe and keep you spending (well worth it). See my review of the market here

4. Go to Quilox on a Friday or Saturday night

This is for those that want to verify that Lagos is truly the AFRObeat party capital of the continent. Quilox is a popular nightclub with beautiful decor and great music. Prepare for a long fun night out.

5. Attend an “Afropolitan Vibes” night out

Afropolitan Vibes is the premiere live concert series that invites amazing artists to perform live at Freedom Park’s Amphitheatre in Lagos, Nigeria. A very chilled and down-to-earth environment that brings the culturally aware residents of Lagos together. Here you can also try the local food and drinks like “palm wine” e.t.c

6. Take a day trip to Badagry

Badagry is home to the history of the Slave trade. In Badagry, you have visit the slave museums, the first storey house in Nigeria and visit “the point of no return” (This is the point where slaves were shipped from Nigeria to foreign lands).

7. Ride the streets of Lagos in a Keke Napep

This is certainly a great way to get around Lagos especially if you are traveling short distances. They are small enough vehicles to manoeuvre through traffic and also airy enough to ensure you don’t suffer heat stroke (Did I mention they are a cheap and affordable means of travel?)

8. Visit the beach

There a many stunning beaches to visit in Lagos. If you are keen for a beach club scene, visit “Pop Beach Club” on the weekend. If you are looking for a private beach feel, visit “La Manga Luxury Villas Ilashe” and if your thing is more of a resort feel, visit “La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort”.

9. Visit Makoko “The Community Built on Stilts”

Makoko is a community village build on stilts in water. The people of Makoko thrive on fishing as their major form of trade. A tour through Makoko is an eye opening experience to a completely different way of living than in the rest of Lagos.

10. Visit Nike Art Gallery

If you’re looking for a gallery that truly celebrates the many dimensions of what Nigeria has to offer, look no further than Nike Art Gallery. Chief Nike-Davies Okundaye (the owner of the gallery) is

11. Watch a play at Muson Centre

Muson Centre (Music society of Nigeria) is a performing arts centre that hosts many awarding-winning plays. Check their schedule and attend one of the plays. This is another side of Lagos that showcases the incredible talent that Nigeria has to offer.

12. Try a Gelato scoop or 2 at Hans & Rene

You think Lagos and you don’t necessarily think Gelato. Hans and Rene has changed that. With so many flavours (some inspired from locally grown fruits), you will be spoilt for choice. They are indeed the connoisseurs of the sweet life.

13. Stop by at “Glover Court Suya” and try Suya

Glover Court Suya is the King of Suya (grilled beef meat nigerian-style) in Ikoyi and is conveniently located on Glover Court. It is a popular spot for locals and expect long queues late nights on Friday and Saturday but the Suya is certainly worth any wait. Word of advise, if you are not into spicy food, ask them to go low on the spice or put the spice to the side #ThankMeLater

14. Visit Terra Kulture

Terra Kulture is a leading art, culture, lifestyle and educational centre in Lagos. For most of us Lagosians, we see Terra Kulture as a GALLERY + AFRICAN RESTAURANT. It is worth the visit.

15. Visit Lekki Conservation and climb the longest canopy walkway in Africa

Lekki conservation centre is one of Africa’s prominent and most-diverse urban Nature Parks due to its high species richness so certainly a must during your trip. The main attraction of the park is the walkway where you will find yourself close to the clouds.

16. Visit the NEW AFRIKA SHRINE (KALAKUTA)

First started in 1970’s by legendary Late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, this is an entertainment centre with african politics, great live music, food and drink bringing together residents of Nigeria from all walks of life. Out of the box but certainly a must.

17. Venture beyond Lagos

One of the biggest mistakes visitors of Lagos make is that they fail to venture outside of Lagos. Many of the incredible festivals that occur in Nigeria aren’t in Lagos. Many of the incredible resorts in the country aren’t in Lagos. My own plan is to venture out more than I currently do. Stay tuned for more experiences in Nigeria.

So over to you! What are your favourite memories from your trip to Lagos?

April 11, 2017February 3, 2019

A GUIDE TO VISITING LEKKI ARTS & CRAFT MARKET (TIPS & HACKS)

Lekki Arts & Craft (also known as Oba Elegushi International Market or Jakande Art Market) is what I would call a gem that does well to showcase the beauty that is within my country, Nigeria. It is a gem that gets overlooked because of its hidden location. Prepare to get another history lesson as you manure through this unique place. The market consists of well organised mini stores (over 60 stores if not more) that sell pieces from carvings to metal work to corals to painting to pearls and much more.

The market is located on Oba Elegushi Street, Off Lekki-Epe expressway (between 4th and 5th roundabout) which is about a 15-20min journey from Victoria Island. Below is a visual diary of my visit to the Lekki Arts and craft Market. I will also be sharing tips and contacts of stores that impressed me so read on:

A snapshot of a row of stores at the very well organised market

One of my favourite stores “Alara Collections” (Store D6 & D19) with unique home craft pieces. Contact: 0803 6578603

Custom furniture anyone?

Affordable gem stones anyone?

ART!

If you are interested in Ambar, Shebra Beads, Chevron Beads, PEARLS (real) and even leather bags, go to “Nura Bala” at Shop D9 (This gentleman is amazing and he will give you a great deal – show him this pic to seal the deal). Contact: 0802 618 2073

My travel companions and I

TIPS FOR SURVIVING AND WINNING BIG AT LEKKI ARTS & CRAFT MARKET

?*TIP 1* Don’t buy from the first shop you visit (Window Shop First). Stores are well labelled so easy to find in case you want to return.

?*TIP 2* Prepare to bargain heavily (I always try to start my bid at 25% of the sellers first price).

?*TIP 3* Don’t feel pressured to buy anything (especially if you have a few days in Lagos and you can visit again). Simply collect the vendors information for future visit.

?*TIP 4* Pretend to be a local and tell the vendor that Nigeria is home so they have to give you a non-touristy price.

?*TIP 5* Wear a hat and ensure you have water for hydration as it can very hot.

?*TIP 6* Avoid going at weekends if you can

Do you know of other hidden gems like this Lekki Market in Lagos? Share below

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April 6, 2017September 21, 2018

CHECKING IN: Nike Guest house, Osogbo

For many that venture into states other than Lagos and Abuja, we can be skeptical of the availability of good facilities such as hotels. I recently visited Osogbo, a town in Osun state and whilst I was there, I stayed at Nike Guest House. Nike Guest House is a product from Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, Nigeria’s internationally known and renowned female designer and artist. Below are visuals from my stay. Read to the end to see my honest thoughts on my stay.

THE BUILDING

A view of Nike Guest House located on Nike Art Gallery Avenue

Dancers from Nike’s Art & Culture performing in front of the main building at the guest house

Sitting pretty in front of the house

A view of the 2nd building at Nike Guest House

THE INTERIOR

Communal living room in the centre of the main building (similar to moroccan riad style homes)

Another communal living room at the guest house

My room at the guest house. There were many other room options (none alike)

THE FOOD

Dinner couldn’t be faulted. It was a buffet with so many delicious options (The chef did well :))

Breakfast with my tour group was equally great (both continental and african options). We all were stuffed! (my plate is not a true reflection of the options available.

THE GARDEN

Part of the beautiful garden at the guesthouse

A stunning view of the garden from the main building during breakfast, wouldn’t you agree?

The resident tortoise in the garden.

What I loved: The food, the evening entertainment and the beautiful garden (not to mention the amazing staff that were very helpful).

What I didn’t like: Well the room I took didn’t have a solid partition between the room and the bathroom. I didn’t mind but I guess its non-conventional.

Would I go back: If I visit Osogbo again, I will certainly visit. I would also recommend it to family and friends

Hope you enjoyed the write-up on Nike Guest House.

March 30, 2017September 21, 2018

A GUIDE TO VISITING OSOGBO, OSUN STATE || STAYCATION

I went on a weekend trip to Osogbo. Osogbo is a city in Osun state located about 225km NE of Lagos state. Osogbo also turns out to be my birth town. I have never stepped in Osogbo since birth and as such this trip had more significance to me than others. I was stunned by how much heritage Osogbo had and wanted to share that with you all with the hope that one day, you will visit too.

DAY 1: DRIVE TO OSOGBO (WITH A SHORT BREAK AT IBADAN) – VISIT LOCAL BLACK SOAP/PALM OIL/CASSAVA PROCESSING FACTORY – VISIT AN OBA’S (A KINGS) PALACE

After receiving a black making soap process tour from this amazing woman, we bantered together in my local dialect “Yoruba”.

Watching the palm oil processing process

At the cassava-processing (a.k.a garri making) plant.

We had the pleasure to attend the 10th anniversary of the Oba of Ido Osun at his palace and his appointing of a Chieftaincy.

Post the chieftaincy ceremony

DAY 2: VISIT UNESCO HERITAGE SITE “OSUN GROOVES” – VISIT SUSANNE WENGER’S HOUSE – NIKE’S ART GALLERY

The visitor centre at the UNESCO Heritage site “Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove”

A meeting place at Osun Grove

Standing by one of the amazing sculptures by Susanne Wenger and other artists mentored by her. Stay tuned for my full write up on this beautiful heritage site (VLOG of my trip also coming up soon)

At the home of Susan Wenger, An austrian artist and a priestess.

Some of the art collection by Susanne Wenger and artists she mentored at her home.

Nike Art Gallery, Osogbo

A visit to Nike’s Art Gallery in Osogbo. Chief Nike is one of Nigerias internationally known and renowned female designers and artist.

More art at Nike’s Art Gallery

Fashion at Nike’s art gallery

WHERE I STAYED: NIKE’S GUEST HOUSE

See here for my full review of my stay at Nike’s guest house

What did I like: Unearthing gems in Osogbo. The tour of the UNESCO site by a very knowledgeable tour guide was enlightening. My stay at Nike’s guest house was also memorable. The guest house’s garden (home to a tortoise) was nothing short of stunning. The visit to the Oba’s house was memorable as we were serenading with musicians and dancers.

What didn’t I like: I wish the local processing plants (i.e. for soap, palm oil) were more formally organised in a co-op for the benefit of those these.

What would I change: Nothing, absolutely nothing

What did you think about my write-up? Hope you enjoyed it. And if you have suggestions of what you would like for me to write on, let me know x

March 21, 2017

8 HACKS FOR surviving an airport in Nigeria

Before you think I am a bitter expat with too high expectations, I would like to clarify that I was born in Nigeria and have lived here for a considerable part of my life. Amongst my peers, I am always the first to defend my country. To say I love my country despite its many flaws is an understatement. I am #ProudlyNigerian. Nevertheless there are some things that even I cannot defend, things that I have tolerated and defended for so long that to defend them would be pure stupidity and more importantly impede the growth of my nation. One of those things is the state of our international airport in Lagos. I will not go into the issues but I will simple give you tips so that you can enjoy or at least not hate your experience so much that you refuse to fly into my beloved country again. Here they are “8 Hacks for surviving an airport in Nigeria”:

1. CHECK IN ONLINE (and PRINT out your CHECK-IN confirmation)

This is important especially if you are flying “cattle class”, sorry I meant Economy. And bear in mind that you may not see a baggage drop queue at the check-in desk. Simply approach an official with your confirmation and you will be able skip ahead of that unbelievable long-winded line.

2. DRESS LIKE YOU ARE GOING SOMEWHERE

The saying that says you should “dress as you want to be addressed” really applies here. People respect you more when you look decent so I suggest to avoid disrespect, dress like you’re someone important (aka rich or at least “not poor”). Sorry flip flops don’t cut it.

3. AVOID HEELS

If you’re unlucky enough to use an international credit card to book your flight, you will have the joy of being sent on a merry go round to do credit card verifications at the airlines office (Pray their systems are working). You want to conduct these activities in comfort AKA “NO heels” (simply to reduce your irritation).

4. IF ASKED YOUR OCCUPATION, RESPOND THAT YOU ARE A STUDENT (AKA You likely have little means of income)

This will reduce the likelihood that you will be begged for money. It can be a little irritating so just curb this by explaining you’re a student of UNILAG or which ever school you please (no rich schools).

5. HAVE MANNERS (a.k.a RESPECT YOUR ELDERS)

The truth is the airport can be a power-hungry environment and everyone from the check-in rep to the immigration rep may use his or her authority to put you down. Key ways to respect your elders are as follows:

Don’t use your left hand to pass anything to officials (it is rude and you will be faced with insults)
Respond to officials with “Yes Ma” and “Yes Sir”
Keep a happy/neutral face and banter with officials

6. GET A SHAPARONE

Who you know is everything in life and this applies at the Nigerian airport. Know the right person and you will likely seamlessly enjoy your hopefully short stint at the airport.

7. ENSURE YOU’VE BUILT UPPER BODY STRENGTH (or travel with a hulk)

Given all bags are manually checked at the check-in desk (I still don’t understand this), you will have to haul your bags on tables to be checked. Ensure to prepare for this so that you don’t feel irritated or question why the hell you have to do this.

8. BE MENTALLY PREPARED TO SHARE THE AIRPORT WITH OTHER SPECIES

The airport has been known to be homes to rats (don’t worry, they don’t bite and they are scared of you). Know that you are a superior being so when you see them, just ignore and continue with your day.

There may be many more hacks out there and perhaps you know them. Do SHARE in the comment section below so that your fellow travelers in and out of Nigeria can have a better experience.

Photo Credit: FAAN

March 14, 2017February 3, 2019

A GUIDE TO Visiting Lekki Conservation Centre

Lekki Conservation Centre is a gem in Lagos State. It is a gem that I frankly believe needs to be promoted more but I do have my reservations and concerns (See my full review and travel tips for visiting at the end of this post). This conversation centre was established in 1990 by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation. The centre covers a land of approx. 78 hectares and is located along the Lagos-Epe expressway. I went to visit on a sunday afternoon and below is my visual diary. Don’t forget to watch my short VLOG on my trip here.

Arriving….

Keeping my eye on multiple monkeys

The trail begins

Hey beautiful!

Arriving at the main attraction (Africa longest canopy walkway)

Walking on the impressive walkway…If you’re afraid of heights, DO NOT DO THIS (It is not compulsory, there is an alternative walkway on land)

Checking out the picnic area

Human-size board games anyone?

One of the fish ponds

This one sure knows how to show off

What did I like: The trail especially the canopy walk (which is a must for an extra N1000). The area was well maintained.

What didn’t I like: The fact that I didn’t see many animals. I was told that many animals tend to make appearances early in the morning and late at night. But given the nature park isn’t open to the public during those times, the public never really gets to see many other animals.

What got me confused: If the park is home to black mambas and the likes, safety would be an issue, no? (I got the feeling there were probably no dangerous animals on site.

What could be better?: Better signage. It would have been easy to miss the picnic area and fish pond if we didn’t ask.

Animals I actually saw: Monkeys (at one point, I felt we humans were the minority), fishes, squirrel, peacock, tortoises.

Who should visit (for what?): Day out, picnic with friends, family day out.

TRAVEL TIPS:

Ensure to do the canopy walk (It is what makes the conservation centre what it is, its an additional costs but worth it)
Ensure to have a guide with you if you are interested in learning more about the park (they seem in short supply)
Bring along your own drinks and food because the heat can be intense
DO NOT WEAR HEELS (I saw a lady wearing heels, she had to take them off to walk the across the canopy walkway…It is not that kind of event)
There is only one way in and one way out so the further you walk is the same distance you have to walk back.

Hope you enjoyed my review of the Lekki Conservation Centre. Have you been there before? What were your thoughts?

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March 10, 2017March 5, 2017

THE LAGOS CHRONICLES: Lagos through the eyes of a stranger

First things first. Who is a stranger to Lagos? A stranger is not just a foreigner in Nigeria, a stranger in our own term means someone who has never lived in Lagos, Nigeria. They have always heard stories about Lagos, either via the media or through an acquaintance that has been there before. So wherever you are reading from, if you have never been to Lagos, you are a stranger. Truth is I know all the good and the bad things you have heard about this illustrious city, but I am here not only to debunk some and also to validate some as well.

THROUGH YOUR EYES:

Lagos is very dangerous

THE REALITY:

Where is safe? Well Lagos is as safe as the streets of London. There are some places in London I would not attempt to go. Truth is you need to be aware of your environment; moreover the government has really intensified their efforts in making it safer.

Image: beegeagle

THROUGH YOUR EYES:

If you come to Lagos, you can get a job within the twinkle of an eye.

THE REALITY:

Lagos is for the smart and industrious, some of the people making it big here found their niche and didn’t wait for white-collar jobs. The chances are fairer that other states but then so are the chances in America but some people are still suffering there.

Image: gotoshool

THROUGH YOUR EYES:

Lagos is for workaholics and there is no time for relaxation

THE REALITY:

You are right on the work angle but surely there is relaxation in Lagos. Have you seen the Lagosians do nightlife (I guess not)?. The city never sleeps but certainly gets more sleep than New Yorkers. After the stressful weekday, Lagosians know how to unwind at several spots such as the beach, boat clubs and sports clubs to mention a few. And the weekends? Just stop by at an event centre next to you, you would be sure to get free entertainment at any “Owambe” (Party).

Image via hotels.ng

THROUGH YOUR EYES:

Lagos is the place to get high class BAEs

THE REALITY:

You are right on that, if you are looking for high class BAE. Not that you cannot get them elsewhere but Lagos has them in abundance but then I must warn you, there are specific places to get the high class ones (I will talk about that another day).

Image: s3.amazonaws

THROUGH YOUR EYES:

The cost of living in Lagos is too high.

THE REALITY:

Though the cost of rent in Lagos is high but then other things such as food are cheap. Just don’t enter those fancy supermarkets in VI & Co. and you will be sure to save yourself some millions 🙂

Image: howafrica

Lagos is a beautiful city and you are definitely going to love it with it’s the fast life, authentic food, vibrant entertainment and so much more.

So have I changed your perception of Lagos?

What are your other perceptions about Lagos? Tell me and I will let you know if you can bank on them or not.

March 7, 2017September 21, 2018

A GUIDE TO VISITING MAKOKO – A SLUM IN THE CENTRE OF LAGOS?

For many years whilst driving through the “Third Mainland Bridge” in Lagos, I notice a community built on water. I always asked myself why people lived there and years later I ask why they chose never to leave. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit this community whose name is “MAKOKO” and had my questions answered.

Makoko is a community with over 100,000 people (85% Christians and 15% muslim). This community is a fishing community with men responsible for catching fish whilst women are responsible for smoking and selling fish. The people are mainly from the Ijaw tribe (hence the reason I couldn’t understand the language spoken in Makoko) with some from the Yoruba and Igbo tribe. Makoko consists of 11 communities (6 of which are built on water). The community operates self sufficiently with limited interference from the government with chief being the judicial system. Below is a visual diary of my trip to Makoko (see also my SHORT video diary):

Approaching…

Commerce. Tomatoes anyone? Canoeing is the mode of transport.

Kids learn to swim from the age of 3

Mother and child

Certificate of chieftancy at the visit to the Chief’s house

A view from the primary school

The primary school in Makoko which educates 269 people a year

With the Chief’s youngest brother Noah Shamede who is also the Director of the school

Yours truly

How did I organise this trip: I am a member of the Nigerian Field Society, a national organisation made up of volunteers that organise trips across Nigeria. If you are interested in well organised trips, ensure to join the society.

How long was the trip: A 20-30min boat trip from Victoria Island to Makoko. Overall trip was 3 hours long.

What did I enjoy the most: The Q&A with Noah Shamede which gave interesting insights into the community. And seeing Makoko from inward instead from how I viewed it driving on the third mainland bridge.

Travel tips:

The heat can be intense so I suggest you take along drinks and snacks
Wear a hat to protect you from the heat
Wear comfortable shoes like trainers
Wear trousers (makes getting in and out of the boat easy)

Hope you enjoyed the write up on Makoko. Share your most memorable site to visit in Nigeria.

February 14, 2017September 21, 2018

CHECKING IN: MAISON FAHRENHEIT LAGOS NIGERIA

Every year there seems to be new hotels springing up in Lagos and today I will review a relatively new one “Maison Fahrenheit”. This hotel is located in Victoria Island and is considered a boutique hotel (with 26 uniquely decorated rooms and 4 suites). I stayed in one of the suites termed the “WOW” suite. Keep reading if you want to know if the “WOW suite” WOWED ME or was just a waste of money.

The room

The living room in the suite

Bathroom goals?

Balcony views

Breakfast room

Yummy breakfast

A view from the rooftop bar

Pool time

Pool view by night

The WOW suite: It was a decent size unlike the standard rooms which were considerable smaller. Decor was very modern.

THE BREAKFAST: There wasn’t extensive choice like in the bigger hotels but the choice available was GREAT and TASTY

THE FACILITIES: The pool was divine. I loved the decor. Unfortunately no gym (which is a big negative for me)

ROOFTOP: Home to a restaurant and bar which gave hotel guest a 20% discount on platters and drinks. Loved the rooftop

WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE: Call me picky but dirty floor towels on the balcony isn’t quality. Also everyone visiting the hotel has access to all floors. Even public guest to the rooftop could easily visit other floors in the hotel (safety issue, no?)

Overall I liked the hotel and would recommend it for those who were visiting Lagos. I paid a very good price for this room which I am sure was a website error so it was definitely worth it. If I had to pay the standard price, I may have been unimpressed 🙂 ….Value can be a function of expectation.

February 4, 2017February 1, 2017

THE LAGOS CHRONICLES: 7 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT LAGOS TRAFFIC

If there is one thing the city of Lagos is popular for, it’s her mind-draining traffic. Even though experiencing traffic is quite annoying especially when you’re trying to get to work on time or you’re running late for that important client meeting, there are indeed some positives of being stuck in traffic (i.e. reasons why we love traffic). Here they are:

1) ENJOY FUNNY SCENES

There are so many comical activities surrounding traffic in lagos. It’s either the sound of bus conductors urging passengers to hold on to their change, or the arguments that go on between the local touts (popularly known as AGBEROS) over things that make no sense. Even road shows involving a lot of energetic dancing organized by companies to market their products are entertaining. Either way, you can be assured of getting free unadulterated humor and sometimes freebies (Who doesn’t love freebies?? even the rich do).

Image: nairaland

2) MEETING HOT GUYS

This is my personal favorite. Who doesn’t like to meet good looking and potential husband-material guys? Lagos traffic makes it really easy. Traffic in Lagos makes it possible to score a hot guy with a dope ride with little to no effort (a few stares and winks here and there will suffice). If you are lucky enough you’ll get a date right in traffic (that’s how good lagos traffic is). You dream man might just be a car way *wink*

3) ROADSIDE MUNCHIES

This might not be everyone’s cup of tea but it sure is mine! I love indulging in some of the locally made snacks that are both pocket friendly and really delicious. Snacks like BOLI (roasted plantain), GALA (sausage roll) and the signature traffic drink LA CASERA (every lagosian should be able to relate).

Image: iafrikan

4) TURN UP

Traffic in lagos can often last for hours (I mean a 20 min journey can end up being 3 hours) and while some people let themselves get frustrated by it, I simply switch up to gear “turn up”. I simply plug in the AUX and viola!! It’s a party. It’s usually much better when I have a few girlfriends with me then we pretty much in a club. It’s not odd to see drivers dancing while in traffic (it’s a norm in Lagos, they are REALLY having the time of their lives and not crazy).

Image: dailymail

5) SOCIAL MEDIA FRIENDLY

Everyone is pretty much obsessed with social media platforms and I am no exception. Lagos traffic gives me the adequate amount of time to post a few tweets, like a picture or two on instagram and most especially make snapchat videos keeping friends posted on my exact whereabouts. The traffic allows me do all this without getting into trouble with the law as most traffic will bring you to a complete stop. Remember “Don’t text and drive”.

Image: cnn

6) LISTENING TO THE RADIO

Now I often don’t get enough time to listen to the radio or watch news on TV because of life’s hecticness. But the few hours spent in traffic gives me enough time to catch up with my favorite radio shows and believe me when I tell you radio stations in Lagos are absolutely dope.

Image: topgear

7) SHOPPING TIME

Food isn’t the only thing you can get in lagos traffic. If you’re familiar with traffic around areas like the main traffic light in Maryland, the Adeola Odeku area in Victoria island (Lagosians can relate). In these locations, you can bag yourself great knockoffs of your favorite designer shades (why go for a N30,000 pair of “Wayfarers” when you can get the knockoff “Ray Peng” for about N200). Although some people “you know who” are trying to take away our road markets, we know they serve a good function 😉

Image: theguardian

I have a real blast every time I’m stuck in traffic in this city that never sleeps. Do you enjoy traffic as much I as do? If so, how do you make your time in traffic more enjoyable? Share your ideas with me below!