Lagos residents battle floods and rising transport costs in prolonged rains

Persistent heavy rainfall has turned Lagos into a flood‑prone city, forcing commuters to alter daily routines. Residents such as Shola Opeyemi now leave home before dawn, carrying rain boots and a backpack to avoid traffic jams, while others like Cecilia Uwadi stay at work late to miss gridlock. The extended rainy season, forecast by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, has also driven up transport fares, with many paying double the usual N2,000 fare, and increased fuel consumption as traffic slows. Traders are protecting goods with waterproof sheets, and the overall cost of living has risen sharply for households already on tight budgets.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that umbrellas, raincoats and weather forecasts have become essential items, highlighting the broader economic strain on Lagos residents as the rains continue longer than expected.