One day inside Lagos public bus

By Abimbola Ola

One day, I was coming from Allen Avenue, Ikeja. My friend Sekinat and I took a bus from Allen to Yaba. The conductor was shouting, “Yaba! Yaba! Enter with your ₦700 change o, mi ò ní change o!” We laughed and entered, found seats together, and started gisting.

As more passengers entered, suddenly a strange odour began to ooze out. It was so strong that we almost choked. I quickly covered my nose, and Sekinat did the same. The smell was coming from the person sitting right next to us. By the time we alighted, my friend was almost fainting, while I couldn’t stop laughing. Me, I be giran (I’m rough), but she couldn’t handle it.

That day reminded me how important personal hygiene is. In public spaces like buses, offices, and markets, we are all sharing the same air. A lack of good hygiene doesn’t just affect one person—it makes other people uncomfortable too.

Cleanliness is not only for you but also for the people around you. Bathing regularly, wearing clean clothes, and using deodorant are small habits that make a big difference. Good hygiene shows respect for yourself and for others.

I really wish more people would take their hygiene seriously, because it matters for everyone who shares the public space.