Lagos, Nigeria Report of what it's like to live there - 03/05/24
Personal Experiences from Lagos, Nigeria
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
No, also Buenos Aires, Argentina.
2. What is your home city/country? How long is the trip to post from there, with what connections? How easy/difficult is it to travel to this city/country?
Northern VA. It ranges from 16 hours to 30+ depending on layovers. Connections are anywhere from 1 to 4. Travel is moderately traveling due to getting to and from the airport and cost of flights (average cost for 1 person in economy is currently $2k).
3. What years did you live here?
2023-2024.
4. How long have you lived here?
Ten months.
5. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
Diplomatic Mission/Military
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
Diplomatic housing is nice considering the options in town. All apartments of varying sizes and on a secure compound. Commute time depends on traffic which at times can be very bad.
2. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
Availability is unstable. US or imported goods are usually in poor condition (i.e., melted, expired, or crushed) and cost more than what they cost in the US. If buying the least expensive goods and only buying what you need for a week, groceries are about $150 a week for me and my spouse.
3. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
Baking items (high quality flour, vanilla extract/paste/bean, specialty spices), sodas and beers, "easy meals" like boxed mac and cheese and cup of noodles, organic or special diet items, protein powder.
4. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
Most popular places are Asian, Lebanese, Pizza, and Nigerian.
5. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
No.
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
Diplomatic post.
2. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
Within the diplomatic community there is a pool of household help that is very cost-effective.
3. Do you feel that it is safe to walk, run or hike outside? Are there areas where bike riding is possible? What is the availability and safety of outdoor space for exercising? Are these easily accessible?
No, I would not recommend walking on the streets. Driving is erratic and hard to predict when attempting to cross streets. Biking on the streets is also dangerous for the inexperienced biker though some community members do take part in biking groups. There is only safe and enjoying space for exercising outside; Eko Atlantic. This is a waterside area that has a paved walking area. It is accessible through a sticker that you can get from the Community Liaison Office (CLO).
4. What kinds of gyms or other sports/workout facilities are available? Are they expensive?
There are very limited facilities that are similar to US quality/standard. There is a nice Crossfit gym that was recently rennovated. Many diplomats use facilities on their compound or at the American Guest Quarters (American Club).
5. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Yes, credit cards are generally accepted though I would recommend always asking if the machine is working before making a purchase. The power and connectivity issues make using a card challenging at times. There are ATMs in the Consulate and banks.
6. What English-language religious services are available locally?
Yes, many different Christian denominations though you should consider personal security before attending.
7. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
American English is generally understood but some pidgin English is helpful for rapport building and connection. There are language classes available.
8. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
Yes, this is not an accessible city for anyone with physical or mental disabilities.
Transportation:
1. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
No, diplomats are not allowed to use public transportation due to safety.
2. What kind of vehicle(s) including electric ones do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, infrastructure, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car or vehicles do you advise not to bring?
A low maintenance and reliable vehicle is recommended. Finding a car at post can be challenging.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
Yes, but it is unreliable.
2. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
GoogleFi works well.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
Nigerians love to dress up! They usually are not casual at a gathering and wear elaborate local dress.
Health & Safety:
1. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
Yes. Kidnapping is the biggest concern. Common city crime as well.
2. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
Food-related sickness is very common due to lack of food quality standards. E-coli, cholera, and other issues are common. The diplomats have access to a small in-house medical facility that can provide basic care. If the medical team cannot treat the issue, you are medevaced.
3. What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
There are seasonal air issues. During harmattan season (December- February) AQi can reach 300+ and it can be challenging being outside.
4. What do people who suffer from environmental or food allergies need to know?
Bring lots of medications or personal items! The local economy does not have many specialty items to assist with allergies or intolerances.
5. Are there any particular mental health issues that tend to crop up at post, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (winter blues)?
Life here can be hard and being in a small "green zone" for the diplomats can become very isolating. Depression is not uncommon.
6. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
Hot with a long rainy season.
Schools & Children:
1. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
The American International School is popular.
2. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
None
3. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
Yes, but very expensive if they are trustworthy.
4. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
Yes and they are very good.
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
Large due to the many American companies but not very connected.
2. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
The night life is the main way people socialize.
3. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
Good for singles and young couples.
4. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
No, not very accepting. No laws protecting them.
5. Is it easy to make friends with locals here? Are there any prejudices or any ethnic groups who might feel uncomfortable here?
Yes, they are very welcoming and encouraging of participating in their culture.
6. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
Strong religious tensions here. Females are inferior and usually "property" to men.
7. What have been the highlights of your time in this country? Best trips or experiences?
The fashion shows and markets are great! Very welcoming!
8. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
The beaches are a great get-away from normal city life!
9. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
Yes! Lots of handmade goods. Clothing items can be custom made at an affordable rate.
10. What are the particular advantages of living in this city?
Immersion into a rich culture.
Words of Wisdom:
1. What do you wish you had known about this particular city/country before moving there?
How expensive it is to travel. Even travel within Africa can be over $1,000. With such a small green zone for diplomats you start to feel trapped.
2. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
I would not, there are much better African posts.
3. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
Outdoor equipment (camping, sports, etc.)
4. But don't forget your:
Surge protectors and bug spray.
5. Do you recommend any books or movies about this city/country for those who are interested in learning more?
Yes, the new Disney+ show, Iwaju.
6. Do you have any other comments?
Lagos is what you make it! If you like going out, it has plenty of options. This post is not for someone with stomach problems or health issues.
