Agberos: The Unpredictable Charm of Lagos Streets

In Lagos, the bustling metropolis where the city never sleeps, one thing is certain, an encounter with agberos (street transport workers) is inevitable. And like a coin toss, they can either brighten your day or leave you wishing you had stayed home.

Picture this: You’re running late for work, the infamous Lagos traffic has you on edge, and an agbero suddenly steps in. He shouts, “Oga, enter quick! Na you we dey wait for!” Somehow, his humor lightens your mood, and the bus moves faster than you expected. Today, this agbero is your hero.

But then, there are those days when their antics test your patience. A sudden fare hike mid-journey or an unnecessarily long argument at the bus stop can make you question the fairness of the universe. Those moments remind you why agberos are both a necessary part of Lagos life and a source of endless frustration.

Yet, beneath the loud voices and tough exterior, agberos are a reflection of the city itself: chaotic, vibrant, and undeniably human. They embody the hustle and humor that define Lagos. On good days, they make you laugh with their sharp wit and street-smart commentary. On bad days, well... they’re just another Lagos challenge to overcome.

You must remember that like yourself, agberos and drivers alike are humans seeking their means of livelihood, and so, deserve to be treated with love. I'll share my experience. I had boarded a bus from Berger to Agege in Lagos, sat just right by the driver. I noticed the gloominess on the driver's face, who had sweats tickling down his dark face. As I struggled with the seat belt which got stuck, I said figuratively, "Kini yin ti stuck". Which is interpreted, "your thing is stuck." He came alive and began to talk and offered to help. He bagan to smile and I looked at him. "Has anyone made you smile today?" His reply was 'no'. For me, that was my achievement of the day.

In the end, agberos are as much a part of Lagos as the yellow buses and traffic jams. Love them or hate them, they make the streets come alive, turning every journey into an unpredictable adventure.

Read also: 5 Interesting Facts About Lagos: Africa’s City That Never Sleeps