Lagos Traffic: An Overrated City with a Growing Crisis
Lagos, the commercial hub of Nigeria, has always struggled with one major issue—traffic congestion. This problem is particularly severe on the mainland, where thousands of business owners and workers commute daily. The traffic in Lagos is unlike any other, often leaving people stuck for up to 10 hours!
Imagine leaving your house at 6 AM, only to find yourself trapped in the infamous one-way Lagos traffic. Many commuters have even abandoned their destinations, choosing instead to turn back home—only to realize that they can’t even get home due to the gridlock.
The Root of Lagos Traffic: Poor Road Network
For me, the biggest cause of this traffic epidemic is poor road infrastructure. Lagos is overrated in many aspects, especially when you visit places like Makoko, Oshodi, and other underdeveloped areas. The roads are in terrible condition, and yet, people still hype Lagos as if it’s some modern paradise.
Even in Lekki, where houses sell for as much as ₦200 million, the roads are far from perfect. It’s frustrating to see such an expensive part of Lagos lacking proper infrastructure.
A Personal Experience with Lagos Traffic
Back when I was in school at Ijanikin, we used to spend over an hour stuck in traffic every day. It was a nightmare. Thankfully, when the roads were fixed, the journey became smooth and hassle-free. This proves that good roads can solve a significant part of the traffic problem—yet the government still ignores this fact.
Tinubu’s Legacy: Revenue Over Infrastructure
It’s crazy how the so-called "Builder of Lagos", a.k.a President Tulumbu of France, failed to properly address the traffic situation. Instead, his main focus was revenue collection, to the point where he even named a tax office after himself.
Now, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, this is not the time to be boasting about Lagos generating the highest revenue. What is revenue if it doesn’t benefit the people? Fix the roads and make Lagos livable!
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