Living in Lagos: the ultimate expat guide

Lagos dominates Nigeria's job market, attracting professionals from across the globe to its diverse economy. The city serves as the headquarters for major Nigerian and international corporations, particularly in oil and gas, banking, technology, telecommunications, and manufacturing. Understanding work permit requirements and salary expectations is essential before accepting a position.

Key Industries and Job Market

The oil and gas sector remains a primary employer of expatriates, offering competitive compensation packages. Nigeria's rapidly growing tech ecosystem, often called "Yabacon Valley," has produced several unicorn startups and attracts international talent. The financial services sector in Lagos is the largest in West Africa, with major banks and investment firms maintaining regional headquarters here. Manufacturing, particularly in consumer goods and construction materials, continues expanding.

Work Permits and Expatriate Requirements

Foreign nationals must obtain a Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) to work legally in Nigeria. Employers must first secure an Expatriate Quota from the Nigeria Immigration Service, specifying approved positions for foreign workers. The process typically begins with a Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa, valid for 90 days, during which the CERPAC is processed. The CERPAC permits residence and work for two years and is renewable. An Expatriate Employment Levy of USD 15,000 annually applies to long-term foreign employees in director roles, with USD 10,000 for other positions.

The following table provides an overview of employment indicators in Lagos:

Sources: Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Ministry of Interior

Lagos hosts several of Nigeria's most prestigious universities, attracting both local and international students. The city's institutions offer programs ranging from engineering and medicine to business and creative arts. International students benefit from English-language instruction and relatively affordable tuition compared to Western institutions.

Major Universities

The University of Lagos (UNILAG), founded in 1962, ranks among Africa's top universities and enrolls over 57,000 students annually. Located in Akoka on the mainland, UNILAG offers programs across engineering, law, medicine, and business administration. The university ranks #1001-1200 in the QS World University Rankings 2026. Lagos State University (LASU), established in 1983, operates from its main campus in Ojo and provides affordable higher education primarily to Lagos residents.

Admission Process and Fees

International students typically apply through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) or Direct Entry pathways. Federal universities like UNILAG charge relatively modest tuition fees ranging from NGN 100,000 to NGN 200,000 (approximately USD 60-120) per year for most programs. Private universities such as Pan-Atlantic University and Anchor University Lagos offer smaller class sizes and modern facilities but charge significantly higher fees. Most universities require proof of English proficiency and secondary school credentials equivalent to Nigeria's Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE).

Sources: University of Lagos, Lagos State University, Times Higher Education

Lagos offers numerous international schools following British, American, and International Baccalaureate curricula. Most expatriate families choose schools in Victoria Island, Ikoyi, or Lekki, where the majority of international institutions are located. School fees represent a significant expense, though many expat packages include education allowances.

Top International Schools

The American International School of Lagos (AISL), founded in 1964, provides an American curriculum with IB Diploma Programme for grades 11-12. Accredited by the Council of International Schools and NEASC, AISL serves approximately 480-580 students from over 30 nationalities. Annual tuition ranges from USD 20,000 to USD 30,000. The British International School Lagos, established in 2001 on Victoria Island, follows the British National Curriculum through IGCSE and A-Levels, with fees typically between NGN 6 million and NGN 10 million (approximately USD 3,700-6,200) annually.

Other Notable Schools and Enrollment

Lekki British International School operates on a 25-acre campus offering IGCSE and A-Levels, with 99% of graduates pursuing higher education. Grange School, established in 1958, delivers British curricula including IGCSE. Charterhouse Lagos opened in 2024 offering the British curriculum with boarding options. Enrollment typically requires birth certificates, previous academic records, passport copies, and immunization records. Most schools begin their academic year in September, with applications opening several months in advance.

Sources: American International School of Lagos, British International School Lagos, U.S. Department of State

Finding suitable accommodation in Lagos requires understanding the city's geography and rental market. The city divides broadly into the Island (Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Lekki) and the Mainland (Ikeja, Gbagada, Yaba). Most expatriates settle on the Island, closer to business districts and international schools. Rental contracts typically require one to two years' rent paid upfront, a significant consideration when budgeting.

Popular Expat Neighborhoods

Ikoyi remains Lagos's most prestigious address, commanding the highest rents with one-bedroom apartments averaging NGN 6 million per year (~USD 3,750). Three-bedroom units can reach NGN 25 million annually. Banana Island, a man-made enclave within Ikoyi, represents the ultra-luxury segment. Victoria Island (VI) serves as the main business district, with one-bedroom apartments averaging NGN 4 million yearly (~USD 2,500). Lekki Phase 1 offers a balance of modern amenities and relative value, while Gbagada on the mainland provides more affordable options at approximately NGN 1.3 million for one-bedroom units.

Rental Process and Considerations

Expatriates should budget for rent, agency fees (typically 10%), legal fees (5-10%), caution deposits, and annual service charges ranging from NGN 2-8 million in serviced estates. Many compounds offer 24-hour security, backup generators, and water treatment—essential given infrastructure challenges. Properties in established estates include amenities like swimming pools and gyms. Working with reputable real estate agents is advisable, as verification of property ownership can be complex.

Sources: PropertyPro Nigeria, Nigeria Property Centre, Nairametrics

Lagos pulses with cultural energy, offering everything from world-class art galleries to pristine beaches and legendary nightlife. The city serves as Africa's entertainment capital, birthplace of Afrobeat, and home to Nollywood, the world's second-largest film industry by volume. Weekends in Lagos present endless options for exploration and relaxation.

Museums and Cultural Sites

The Nike Art Gallery in Lekki showcases over 7,000 pieces of contemporary and traditional African art across four floors—admission is free. The Kalakuta Republic Museum in Ikeja preserves the legacy of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti in his former commune, with entry fees around NGN 7,500. The National Museum in Onikan houses archaeological treasures including the famous Jemaa Head and Benin Bronzes. The J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture, opened in 2023, offers interactive exhibits on Yoruba history. Freedom Park, a former colonial prison transformed into a cultural hub, hosts live music, art shows, and theatre performances with entry fees of NGN 700.

Beaches, Nature, and Nightlife

The Lekki Conservation Centre features Africa's longest canopy walkway at 401 meters, offering views of mangroves and wildlife for approximately NGN 5,000. Tarkwa Bay Beach, accessible by boat from Victoria Island, provides a peaceful escape with entry fees of NGN 300-1,000. For nightlife, the New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja hosts live performances by Femi Kuti every Thursday and Sunday. Victoria Island offers upscale lounges and rooftop bars like Kaly and RSVP. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy golf at Lakowe Lakes, while water activities include kayaking across the lagoon and visits to the Giwa Gardens water park in Sangotedo.

Sources: Wikipedia - Tourist attractions in Lagos, TripAdvisor

Daily life in Lagos requires adaptation to a fast-paced environment where traffic congestion, power fluctuations, and infrastructure gaps are balanced by warm hospitality and dynamic energy. Understanding transportation options and local customs helps newcomers settle in more smoothly.

Transportation Options

Lagos has invested heavily in public transit infrastructure. The Blue Line Metro, Nigeria's first electric rail, opened in September 2023 connecting Mile 2 to Marina, with fares around NGN 750 per trip. The Red Line launched in October 2024, running from Agbado to Oyingbo. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system operates dedicated lanes on major routes, carrying over 18 million passengers in 2024. Most expatriates rely on ride-hailing services like Bolt and Uber, which are affordable and convenient. Many employers provide company vehicles with drivers as part of expatriate packages, given the challenging driving conditions and notorious traffic—commutes can take two to three hours during peak times.

Lifestyle and Practical Tips

Power outages are common; most residential compounds have backup generators, though fuel costs add to monthly expenses. Mobile money and bank transfers are widely used, though cash remains important for smaller transactions. The currency is the Nigerian Naira (NGN), trading at approximately NGN 1,600 to USD 1. Lagos enjoys a tropical climate with two seasons: rainy (April-October) and dry (November-March). Local markets offer fresh produce at affordable prices, while international supermarkets stock imported goods at premium rates. Nigerians are generally welcoming, and the expatriate community maintains active social networks through clubs, churches, and professional associations.

Sources: Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Nigeria Immigration Service

Lagos has historically been considered expensive by Nigerian standards, though currency depreciation has made it more affordable for those earning in foreign currencies. According to Mercer's 2024 Cost of Living Survey, Lagos ranks among the world's most affordable cities for international assignees. However, expatriates typically maintain a higher standard of living than the local average, which significantly impacts budgets.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

The following table estimates monthly costs for a single expatriate living in an expat-friendly neighborhood:

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Families should expect higher costs, particularly for housing and education:

Sources: Numbeo, Mercer Cost of Living Survey 2024, Foyer Global Health