Lagos is a megacity that attracts many visitors from all walks of life, with an increased metro area population of 3.7% from 16,536,000, recorded in 2023. the state has a lot of activities that lead people to travel around with various transportation options available.
This rise in population and increased commercial activities triggered the crime rate in the state. In fact, the National Bureau of Statistics indicates that Lagos has the highest percentage share of total offenses against persons recording 53,641 cases reported in the state.
That said, whether you are visiting Lagos from other states of the country, as a Nigerian in the diaspora, or as a foreigner visiting Lagos for pleasure or business, be sure to inculcate certain safety measures while traveling in Lagos with different transportation mediums.
In this article, we will guide you through those safety measures to travel around the state, stressing important tips, do and don’t, emergency measures to take, and the safest convenient transportation options available in Lagos.
Let’s journey safely around Lagos!
Safety Tips When Traveling In Lagos
The center of excellence as Lagos is fondly called is filled with many hardworking people going about their legitimate activities without the intention of causing harm to others. Likewise, the state possesses many scrupulous elements that are bent on making the state unhabitable for others.
With that in mind, we at Lagosnownow aim to counter their efforts and guide you to live and travel safely in Lagos so return to your love once in peace.
Consider these 7 safety tips when traveling in Lagos:
- keep car doors and window roll up the windows when In the car
- Avoid Excessive display of expensive jewelry or gadgets.
- Don’t show too much money in public.
- Use only well-known and registered taxis or ride-hailing services.
- Keep your phone and valuables hidden while in transit.
- Ensure your phone is charged.
- Use Secure Accommodations
1) Keep Car Doors And Windows Roll Up
When traveling in Lagos it’s essential to lock your car doors and roll up the windows for several reasons. Firstly, this helps prevent opportunistic theft and ensures your safety by creating a barrier between you and potential threats.
Additionally, locking the doors deter unauthorized entry, reducing the risk of carjacking or unwanted interactions.
In many cities of Lagos, traffic congestion is common, keeping the windows rolled up reduces exposure to pollutants, dust, and street vendors, thus maintaining a cleaner and more secure environment inside the vehicle. Ultimately, these precautions enhance overall safety and comfort, especially in the busy and unpredictable traffic conditions common in Lagos
2) Don’t Display Expensive Items
On a lighter note, someone once said Lagos is the headquarters traffic jam, fueled by increased commercial activities, high vehicle density, and congested roads with the inadequacy of infrastructure.
When traveling in Lagos, you will encounter Lagos traffic that often leaves motorists stuck in their vehicles for minutes, sometimes hours. Usually, you see scenarios where people hawk different items such as snacks, soft drinks, car chargers, windshield wipers, etc, with that the traffic gets even busier.
These street hawkers may be genuine hustlers striving for their daily bread, but their activities( making the road busy) pave the way for street robbers to snatch valuables including phones, pieces of jewelry, and purses, and run away with them.
To save yourself from such losses when traveling in Lagos ensure to avoid excessive usage of mobile devices and display of valuables in the traffic as many aggressive rubbers may decide to break your windshield the snatch what attracts them.
3) Avoid Cash Display Money in public.
During your period of traveling in Lagos, you may need to make purchases of items in supermarkets, fuel stations, bars, and restaurants, or probably need to visit a local bank to get some money.
It is safe to avoid excessive showing of money as this may cause you to be trailed and robbed, a smart move will be to bring out only money needed at a point, when paying for items with huge amounts of cash it is advisable to get into a secured or covered place to make your payment, or pay with card and bank transfer
Ultimately, ensure to sure keep your cash out of display or pay with card or bank transfers.
4) Use Credible Transportation.
When traveling in Lagos there are various transportation options in the state such as Okada (motorcycle), Tricycle (Maruwa), minibus (Korope), LAG Bus, and some reliable taxis or ride-hailing services. All of which depends on your choice and availability in your location.
But our concentration will be on the ride-hailing service and self-sourced taxis, in our opinion, this is the safest and most convenient option, especially for people visiting Lagos for the first time who are not conversant with the road and navigation.
Some credible ride-hailing services in Lagos include Bolt, Uber, Indrive, and Lag Ride, etc, always avoid drivers offering offline rides and ensure you order with official apps. If you must use an un-branded taxi as a visitor make sure the taxi is ordered from someone you know at least, this could be a hotel front desk or supermarket staff. etc. this should guarantee some degree of safety
Key Note: Do not just wave a taxi you don’t know on the road and attempt to take a ride.
5) Charge Your Phone
The inadequate electricity supply in Lagos has been a longstanding challenge that significantly affects everyday life and economic operations, the state struggles to get a reasonable power supply to ease regular day-to-day activities.
Charging your phone before traveling in Lagos is crucial due to unreliable electricity supply and the potential for long periods without power. In Lagos, frequent power outages are common, especially in certain areas of the state. A fully charged phone ensures you can stay connected for navigation, communication, and emergencies.
Also, with a charged phone, you can use apps for real-time updates on routes or delays, stay in touch with contacts, and have a reliable means of communication in case of unexpected situations.
6) Avoid Unsafe Areas
Lagos like many large cities, has areas that are less safe for tourists and visitors. Avoid wandering into unknown or isolated neighborhoods while traveling in Lagos, particularly at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and popular tourist spots. It’s a good idea to ask locals or your hotel concierge about areas to avoid.
Also, be conscious of your environment, the Lagos State Police security tips are always a good guide for visitors.
7) Arm Yourself With Emergency Contact
Finally, it makes sense to Arm yourself with the Lagos State emergency numbers in case of necessity, find those contacts below and save them on your phone so you can reach out when need be.
| 1. | Lagos State Police Command | 08033011052, 08056250710, 08033183477 |
| 2. | Distress Call | 767, 112 |
| 3. | Fire/Safety Services | 08033234943, 08023321770 |
| 4. | Emergency Management (LASEMA) | 08060907333, 08023127654, 08022234870, 016574706, 016574714 |
Conclusion
When traveling in Lagos, it’s important to prioritize your safety by implementing these essential tips. Keep your car doors and windows rolled up to deter potential threats. Avoid displaying expensive items such as jewelry and refrain from flaunting cash in public spaces.
Also, opt for credible transportation options and ensure your phone is fully charged before traveling for emergencies. Stay clear of unsafe areas and arm yourself with important emergency contacts. By adhering to these precautions, you can enjoy a safer and more secure travel experience in Lagos.
Safe travels!
