Lagos, Nigeria’s largest city, is an eclectic mix of cultures, people, and experiences. With its bustling streets, iconic landmarks, and vibrant social scene, Lagos can feel overwhelming, especially for someone new to the city or anyone looking to meet new people. Yet, Lagos is also a place where friendships can blossom in the most unexpected ways. Whether you're a local looking to expand your circle or a new arrival trying to settle into the rhythm of the city, this guide will help you navigate how to meet new friends in Lagos in a way that feels natural and genuine.
1. Start with What You Know: Friends of Friends
In Lagos, personal connections often open doors. If you already have a few friends, start by asking them to introduce you to their circle. Lagosians are usually very open to making new friends, especially when there's already a common link. When someone can vouch for you, it breaks down a lot of barriers. You might get invited to a birthday party, a wedding, or even just a casual hangout, and before you know it, you're part of a larger social network.
Lagosians love to gather in groups. The weekend owambe (parties) are the perfect opportunities to meet people. Even if you're an introvert, Lagos parties have a way of making everyone feel welcome, thanks to the good music, food, and shared excitement.
2. Be Open to Conversations in Public Spaces
Lagosians are friendly people by nature. You’ll often hear people describe Lagos as the city where people greet each other on the streets, on buses, and even in traffic. While it may seem odd in some cultures to strike up a conversation with strangers, in Lagos, it's perfectly normal to chat with someone while you're waiting for a bus at the BRT station or while in a queue at a grocery store. Just be polite and genuine, and don't be afraid to initiate conversation.
For instance, if you’re sitting in a café or lounge like the famous Jazzhole or RSVP, simply smiling at someone or commenting on the music playing in the background can be the start of an interesting conversation. Lagosians love to share their opinions, so any light topic, from traffic to the latest Davido album, could lead to meaningful conversations.
3. Join Social Clubs and Associations
One of the best ways to meet new people in Lagos is by joining social clubs or groups that interest you. From sports clubs to business associations, there’s always something for everyone. If you're into fitness, Lagos has a growing fitness culture. You can join a local gym, yoga class, or fitness club. Places like Eko Gym & Spa, EliteBox, and Fit Nigeria host fitness enthusiasts who bond over shared workouts.
If you’re more inclined towards business or professional networking, consider groups like Junior Chamber International (JCI) or the Nigerian Institute of Management. These organizations regularly host events that bring together professionals from different industries, offering you the opportunity to network, learn, and make new friends.
You might also consider volunteering for a cause you care about. Many NGOs and non-profit organizations in Lagos rely on volunteers for their activities. Organizations like Slum2School and the Lagos Food Bank Initiative regularly host outreach programs, and these events offer a great way to meet like-minded people while giving back to society.
4. Explore Online Communities
In this digital age, making friends doesn't always start with face-to-face interactions. Social media platforms, WhatsApp groups, and even dating apps are viable ways to meet new people in Lagos. There are plenty of Lagos-based groups on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter where people organize meetups or events. You’ll find communities centered around hobbies like photography, art, tech, and even cooking.
Apps like Bumble and Tinder aren't just for dating; they also have features where you can connect with people just for friendship. In a fast-paced city like Lagos, where everyone is hustling and always on the move, having an app that helps you meet people with similar interests can be a great way to build new friendships.
5. Attend Events and Social Gatherings
Lagos is a city that never runs out of events. From concerts to art exhibitions, comedy shows to food festivals, there’s always something happening. You can check websites like Eventbrite or Nairaland for event listings, or simply follow popular event organizers on Instagram. A visit to the New Afrika Shrine during a live music show or attending Lagos Fashion Week are perfect places to mix with Lagosians from different walks of life.
Many of these events are structured in a way that promotes interaction. For instance, at food festivals like GTCO Food and Drink Festival, you'll find long communal tables where people sit together and share meals. Don't be shy to strike up a conversation with the person next to you. In Lagos, food and music are universal languages that bring people together.
6. Take Advantage of Religious or Cultural Centers
Religion plays a significant role in the lives of many Lagosians, and churches and mosques are often central hubs for socializing. Lagos is home to some of Nigeria's largest religious congregations, and attending services or programs at places like The Redeemed Christian Church of God or The House on the Rock can be a good way to meet people. Many of these places offer small groups or fellowships that focus on different demographics, from youth to working professionals.
If you're more interested in Lagos’ rich cultural scene, you can visit places like Terra Kulture or Freedom Park. These spaces regularly host cultural shows, book readings, and film screenings, where you can meet others who share an appreciation for Nigerian arts and history.
7. Be Patient and Authentic
One of the most important things to remember when trying to meet new friends in Lagos is to be yourself. Lagosians can sense when someone is being insincere, so it’s important to let your true personality shine. Building meaningful connections takes time, and Lagos can sometimes feel like an intimidating place with its fast-paced lifestyle and seemingly closed-off social circles. But with patience and the right approach, you’ll soon find yourself connecting with people who genuinely care.
Friendships in Lagos, like anywhere else, require effort and consistency. Don’t be discouraged if it takes some time to build those close connections. Keep showing up, keep engaging, and stay positive.
8. Get Involved in Hobbies and Leisure Activities
Lagos is a city that caters to almost every kind of hobby or leisure activity you can imagine. Whether it’s surfing in Tarkwa Bay, salsa dancing in Lekki, or attending poetry nights at Bogobiri, the city is full of opportunities for you to dive into your interests while meeting people.
For example, the Lagos Yacht Club is a place where you can meet people who share a love for the sea and boats. Or if you enjoy board games, there are board game cafés such as Nibbles and Scribbles where you can engage in some healthy competition while making new friends.
Hobbies provide a natural avenue for friendship because they allow you to connect with others over shared experiences. Whether you’re part of a cycling club that rides through Ikoyi or you join a photography group that meets at the Lekki Conservation Centre, you’ll find that friendships formed through hobbies often feel more organic.
9. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Networking
In Lagos, the lines between professional networking and personal relationships are often blurred. It’s common to find that your work colleague becomes a close friend or that a business connection introduces you to your new bestie. Lagos is a city that thrives on networking. Whether it’s attending a business seminar at Eko Hotel or a tech meet-up in Yaba, you’ll find that professional events can also be a great place to meet new people.
The key to networking in Lagos is to show genuine interest in the other person. Lagosians appreciate authenticity, and while people are always looking to advance professionally, they are also open to forming friendships through those same interactions. You may start a conversation about work, but it can quickly turn into a discussion about family, hobbies, or even the best spots to eat amala.
10. Stay Safe and Trust Your Instincts
As with any large city, safety is a priority when meeting new people in Lagos. Always ensure you meet in public places when connecting with someone for the first time. Whether it's someone you met online or a friend of a friend, always trust your instincts. Lagosians are generally welcoming and warm-hearted, but it's essential to be cautious, especially in unfamiliar environments.
Public spaces like malls, restaurants, and parks are ideal places to meet for the first time. Places like Ikeja City Mall, Landmark Beach, and Jara Beach Resort offer safe environments where you can relax and get to know people better.
Conclusion
Meeting new friends in Lagos can be both exciting and daunting, but with the right mindset and approach, it’s more than possible to build meaningful and lasting connections. From the energetic social scene to the warmth of the people, Lagos provides numerous opportunities to connect with others, whether through shared interests, work, or everyday encounters.
The most important thing is to be open, approachable, and patient. Friendships take time to develop, but Lagos is a city where relationships can flourish, leading to friendships that enrich your life. So go out there, explore the city, engage with its vibrant culture, and start building those connections today!