Why I moved to Lagos Mainland.

“Why Lagos mainland is better than the island? Shade* (26) talks about leaving the congested island and why she is grateful for the change.”

 I’ve been aware of my need for space since I started living alone on the island. On one hot Sunday afternoon, I stood in my tiny apartment.  Looking out at the endless stream of cars and the constant din of noise, I knew I had to make a change. The congestion, the chaos, the endless traffic and the feeling of being trapped – it was literally taking a toll on my mental and physical health.

The island was choking me, abeg! The tiny spaces, no green area to chill for free.  Even the very dirty tap water that gave me a lot of bad reactions on my skin. I even had to start cooking with sachet water. The worse part is there’s literally a price tag to every single thing or activity. I was craving some freedom and space to breathe, you know?  

However, I wanted the luxury of taking a deep breath without inhaling all that generator and danfo smoke, walk by the road side in the morning or in the evening without being pushed and shoved by people rushing to catch their next bus. It wasn’t just the physical space that I was craving – it was also a more affordable lifestyle. The island was too unrealistically overpriced. Made me feel like I was hemorrhaging money just to exist. I was tired of feeling like I had to choose between paying my bills and enjoying a common decent meal.

In January 2024, I finally made up my mind to leave the island and its wahala behind and start a new life in Surulere, Lagos mainland. And to the glory of God and the shame of the devil, I did, thank God! I got a one Bedroom Apartment in Leeds Apartment from Flinx Realty in the heart of Surulere, Lagos.  Don’t let anybody lie to you Lagos mainland is better than the island, na mainland dey hot now o! 

Leaving the island was one of the best decisions I’ve made in awhile. So, If you’re feeling trapped and suffocated like I was, I encourage you to take that move and come to Lagos mainland. You don’t know what you’re missing!!!