Luckily, things took a turn for the better once I settled in. I quickly discovered a supportive community and network that helped me navigate both the exciting and risky aspects of Nigeria. Here are some valuable suggestions I received on dealing with airport authorities that I wish I had known beforehand:
Understand and adhere to the rules to avoid giving officials unnecessary leverage.
Maintain a low profile when possible: avoid excessive eye contact, minimize attention, and carry minimal valuables.
Adopt a "play dumb" strategy: portray yourself as an unaware foreigner, and use another language.
Employ verbal tactics when faced with bribery requests: consider claiming to be a financially challenged student and request a gift instead.
Utilize protocol services available to you.
Aside from the unfortunate airport experience, my time in Lagos was incredible and hassle-free. Thanks to the BCG community, I made new friends who enthusiastically joined me in exploring Lagos with fresh perspectives.
Lekki Conservation Center
One of my early excursions led me to the Conservation Centre at Lekki, renowned for its vibrant wildlife and diverse ecosystem. The highlight was the awe-inspiring 401-meter-long canopy walkway, the longest in Africa. As I ventured through the treetops, I immersed myself in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding forest, encountering a variety of plant and animal species, from colorful birds to playful monkeys and even crocodiles.
Relaxing beach getaway
My friends also introduced me to a serene private beach where we enjoyed delicious food, good company, and peaceful moments of reading. However, it was disheartening to witness the stark contrast with the surrounding areas, where roads and sidewalks were scarce, just a few meters away.
A spicy culinary adventure
Exploring Lagos' culinary scene was a delightful adventure, albeit with a spicy twist. I enjoyed the iconic jollof rice, suya, fried yam potatoes and plantain. These traditional dishes are an absolute must-try for anyone visiting Lagos!
