Lagos Living: Causes Of Traffic In Lagos

For those living inside and outside Lagos, the news of the traffic situation in Lagos is not new to anyone. Lagos is the biggest commercial hub in Nigeria, making it the busiest among other cities. 

Traffic is one thing many Lagosians face daily. Yet, most people don’t understand why this keeps repeating. There are several reasons behind the never-ending Lagos traffic, and we’ve gathered the various causes of traffic in Lagos. 

Lagos Traffic Cases And Their Causes 

Interestingly, it’s not only one thing that causes traffic in Lagos. For those who haven’t been to the city, the speculation is that it might be one or two things. But they’re more than one. Causes of Lagos traffic include;

1. Road Repair/ Road Diversion

If you’re familiar with Lagos, you’ll immediately realize that there’s always a road (re)construction somewhere. What does this constant road repair lead to? Traffic. Road users and drivers are forced to negotiate other routes to their destination. The result is increased traffic in those areas.

2. In-Road Stops

Many drivers in Lagos are fond of this. But, commercial drivers are constantly stopping in the middle of a road to stop and pick up passengers. Other times, they’re just stopping to have chit chats with people. The result is that others behind the driver will have to wait.

3. Bad Roads & Pot Holes

There are some bad areas in Lagos that require extra effort before vehicles can pass through them. Car owners and drivers struggle to pass through. Sometimes, vehicles get stuck or spoil, thereby causing traffic.

4. Clashes & Accidents 

Road accidents are the other things that cause traffic on Lagos roads. It’s either a vehicle running into another vehicle or accidents caused by task forces pursuing a vehicle. It all leads to traffic until the vehicles can be removed from the road. 

5. Big Lorries Parked On The Roadside

Very often, you’ll find big lorries parked on Lagos roadsides. For drivers and road users, the result is that everyone will have to use one route. It tightens the road and reduces vehicle movement.

6. Hasty Attitude

Everyone in Lagos is always in haste. From private car owners to commercial vehicles, tricyclists, and bike riders. The never-patient attitude of Lagosians results in blocked roads and increased traffic. 

7. Spoilt Vehicles

On several occasions, Lagos traffic is caused by vehicles suddenly spoiling on the road. When this occurs in the middle of the road, drivers have to reverse and negotiate new routes or stay in traffic.

8. Lagos Task Force

Don’t be surprised that you might spend hours inside a traffic jam only to get to the end of it and realize task enforcers caused it. It is usually the most annoying type of traffic for drivers. But, as always, nothing can be done about it. At least, yet. 

Conclusion

The traffic issue in Lagos is old news that still affects free and easy movement for road users. Although you can beat the Lagos traffic, sometimes, there’s no way out of it, especially when you’re using your private car.