Lagos: The Pulsating Heart of Nigeria

• HelloBawo ni
  [bah-woh nee]
• GoodbyeOdabo
  [oh-dah-boh]
• YesBẹẹni
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• NoBẹẹkọ
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• Please/You're welcomeAbẹnu
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• Excuse me/SorryE jẹ ki a ma ṣe iranlọwọ
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  [dah-dah nee yoh]
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• I don't understandMi o mọ
  [mee oh moh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMo fẹran lati wo ipese, jọ
  [moh feh-rahn lah-tee woh ee-peh-seh, joh]
• I don't eat meatMi ko je ẹran
  [mee koh jeh eh-rahn]
• Cheers!Aṣẹ!
  [ah-sheh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMo fẹran lati fi owo mi, jọ
  [moh feh-rahn lah-tee fee oh-woh mee, joh]

• Help!Gbọkọ!
  [gboh-koh]
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  [woh oh-roh oh-loh-roon]
• I'm lostMi ṣẹlẹ
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• I'm illMi ń gbẹ
  [mee uhn gbeh]

• I'd like to buy...Mo fẹran lati ra...
  [moh feh-rahn lah-tee rah]
• I'm just lookingMo n jẹ iranlọwọ
  [moh en jeh ee-rahn-loh-woh]
• How much is it?Bawo ni o dara julọ?
  [bah-woh nee oh dah-rah joo-loh]
• That's too expensiveO dara julọ lẹnu
  [oh dah-rah joo-loh leh-noo]
• Can you lower the price?Ṣe o le kawe irọpo?
  [sheh oh leh kah-weh ee-roh-poh]

• What time is it?Kini ọkan la n?
  [kee-nee oh-kahn lah n]
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  [oh-kahn lah-sahn]
• Half past (10)Ọkan ti o kọja (10)
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• TodayỌ̀nà
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• 2Meji
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• 3Mẹta
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• 4Mẹrin
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• 5Marun
  [mah-roon]
• 6Mefa
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• 7Mẹfà
  [meh-fah]
• 8Mejọ
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• 9Mẹsan
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• 10Mẹwa
  [meh-wah]

• Where's a/the...?Nibo ni...?
  [nee-boh nee]
• What's the address?Kini adirẹsi?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?Ṣe o le fihan mi?
  [sheh oh leh fee-hahn mee]
• When's the next (bus)?Nibo ni o gbọ wọle?
  [nee-boh nee oh gboh woh-leh]
• A ticket (to ....)Iwe iṣẹ
  [ee-weh ee-sheh]

Lagos, originally known as Eko, was founded by the Awori subgroup of the Yoruba people. Oral traditions suggest that the Awori settled in the 13th century, drawn by the strategic location and abundant resources of the area. Eko, meaning 'war camp', was a name given by the early settlers.

In 1472, Portuguese explorers led by Rui de Sequeira arrived in Lagos, naming it 'Lago de Curamo' after the lagoons in the area. The Portuguese established trade relations, primarily dealing in spices, cloth, and later, slaves.

From the late 16th century, Lagos became a significant center for the transatlantic slave trade. European traders, including the Portuguese, British, and Dutch, traded slaves with the local rulers, particularly the Oba of Lagos. The town's importance grew as a major port for the export of slaves to the Americas.

In 1851, the British attacked Lagos to suppress the slave trade, leading to its annexation in 1861. Lagos became a British colony and later the capital of the Southern Nigeria Protectorate in 1906. British colonial rule brought infrastructural development, including railways, schools, and hospitals.

Lagos played a crucial role in Nigeria's struggle for independence, which was achieved in 1960. As the capital of Nigeria, Lagos experienced rapid population growth and urbanization. In 1991, the capital was moved to Abuja, but Lagos remained the economic and cultural hub of the country.

Lagos is a vibrant cultural melting pot, home to numerous ethnic groups, including the Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa. It is renowned for its music, particularly Afrobeat, pioneered by Fela Kuti. The city also hosts several cultural festivals, such as the Eyo Festival and Lagos International Jazz Festival.

Today, Lagos is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. It is Nigeria's largest city and a major financial center in Africa. With bustling markets, thriving industries, and a booming tech scene, Lagos continues to be a beacon of innovation and cultural dynamism.

Lagos is accessible through Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS), which is the main gateway for international visitors. Numerous airlines operate flights to and from Lagos, making it well-connected to major cities worldwide. From the airport, you can hire a taxi, use a ride-hailing service, or arrange for hotel transportation to get to your destination within the city.

Lagos offers various modes of transportation including taxis, ride-hailing services (such as Uber and Bolt), buses, and the Lagos Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. For shorter distances, motorbike taxis known as 'okadas' and tricycles called 'kekes' are popular, though they are less regulated. It is advisable to use ride-hailing services for safety and convenience.

The official currency in Nigeria is the Nigerian Naira (NGN). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful in Lagos, but always use those in secure locations like banks and hotels.

Lagos has areas with high crime rates, particularly for crimes targeting tourists. It is crucial to avoid neighborhoods like Mushin, Ajegunle, and Oshodi, especially at night. Stick to well-known and secure areas like Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Lekki. Always stay vigilant, avoid flaunting valuables, and be cautious when using ATMs.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) handles emergencies, including medical and fire incidents. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Major hospitals in Lagos include Lagos University Teaching Hospital and Reddington Hospital.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in conservative areas. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people formally with a handshake. Use titles and last names unless invited to do otherwise. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality; it is considered impolite.

To experience Lagos like a local, visit the Lekki Arts and Crafts Market for unique souvenirs and local art. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in areas like Victoria Island and Lekki. Don't miss trying local dishes like Jollof rice, Suya, and Pounded yam. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about their city.