Lagos Expat City & Insurance Guide
Lagos is the largest city in Nigeria and on the African continent. As Nigeria’s most cosmopolitan city, Lagos is a city of immigrants and commerce. The population has reached approximately 18 million and is one of the fastest growing cities in the world. Separated by two main areas – the Island and the Mainland.
The official language of Lagos is English. Lagos has a tropical climate and the rainy seasons usually begins in April and October. Between November and March, there could be sandstorms due to the dry season.
Safety & Security
According to OSAC Lagos 2016 Crime & Safety Report, US visitors and residents in the mainland of Lagos have experienced assaults, kidnappings, and even armed muggings. And these crimes can happen during both daylight and evening hours, so expatriates should be well aware of their surroundings at all times. In the countryside, there are frequent attacks over the oil resources that are so important to the economy in Nigeria, including Lagos. There is always the ever-present threat of terrorism, especially from Boko Haram. Visitors and expats moving to Lagos should make sure that they are covered by international health insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
Dining
Expats can visit Yellow Chilli on Joel Ogunaike Street for Nigerian delicious gourmet meals and local spicy foods. Feature dishes including pepper soup and spicy seafood. Another popular choice is Dechills Hind on Adeniran Ogunsanya Street. It is known for its quality ingredients. Beef Rossini and Chicken are must-try dishes.
Shopping
Mercado Municipal da Avenida de Lagos is a popular place. If you plan a day trip to Lagos, then its often worth a morning visit. Fresh fish will arrive in the market twice every day. Also, there are beautiful and exciting shopping malls such as The Palms, Adeniran Ogunsanya and Keja City Mall. All of them excellent fashion choices for expats and locals alike.
Healthcare in Lagos
International health insurance is critical for expats moving to Lagos, Nigeria. Generally speaking, the standard of healthcare facilities in Lagos remains poor. Both public hospitals and private clinics are available in Lagos, but expats requiring advanced medical treatment will usually need to go to countries with better facilities. Most expats will go to one of the more advanced hospitals and clinics in Lagos, such as the ISOS clinic or Reddington Hospital.
Therefore, comprehensive medical insurance plans with medical evacuation is required for all expats living in Lagos and other cities in Nigeria.
Insurance for Expatriates in Lagos
Most foreigners living in Lagos will want a plan that provides international medical treatment. Many expatriates in Lagos will also want expat life and disability insurance coverage.
Here is a list of different types of insurance coverage you will want if you are planning to become an expatriate in Lagos:
- International Health Insurance
- Expat Life and Disability Insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Evacuation Coverage
- Group Expat Insurance Plans
If you require a quote for global insurance Lagos, contact Expat Financial today for a quote and to discuss your expatriate insurance requirements.