Lagos is the bustling megacity of Nigeria, and has become a destination like no other on the African continent. With a population of 21 million people and growing, it is the largest city in Nigeria and one of the largest in the world. Lagos is a centre of commerce, culture, and creativity and offers a diverse range of attractions to keep visitors entertained. From the glittering skyline of Victoria Island to the lively street markets of Yaba, this city offers something for everyone. In this article, we explore Lagos in detail – its history, culture, attractions and more.
Getting to Know Lagos
Lagos is the most populous city in Nigeria and the second largest city in Africa. As of the 2006 census, Lagos had a population of over 9 million people. It is located on the southwestern coast of Nigeria and has a humid tropical climate.
Lagos is in the West African Time Zone, which is one hour ahead of UTC (Coordinated Universal Time).
The official language of Lagos is English, although many other languages are also spoken, including Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo.
The currency used in Lagos is the Naira (NGN). The Naira is divided into 100 Kobo and is issued in notes of five denominations.
Climate and Weather
The climate of Lagos, Nigeria can best be described as a tropical wet and dry climate. It is hot and humid with two distinct seasons. The rainy season runs from March to October with some rain most days. Average temperature range from 19°C (67°F) in December and January to a peak of 34°C (93°F) in March. The dry season runs from November to March and it is considered the best time to visit the city. The city is prone to heavy flooding during periods of significant rainfall. Humidity levels range from 66% in December to over 90% from June to August.
Touring Lagos: Airport and Transportation
There are two international airports in Lagos. The Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA).
You can get from the main airport to downtown in Lagos by taking a taxi which will cost around U$20.
Yes, you can change money at Lagos airport. The airport offers a Bureau de Change facility.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Lagos
- Lagos is the cultural and historical center of Yoruba-speaking people in Nigeria, who have a vibrant and ancient culture.
- The city offers a range of attractions that focus on the rich history of both its early settlers and the slave trade, from traditional music and art to colonial architecture
- Many local festivals make for great opportunities to explore Lagos’ culture, including the popular Eyo Festival and Lagos Carnival