Hiring in Lagos comes with unique challenges for both employers and employees. If it’s not the bumper-to-bumper traffic, it’s the high cost of transportation or the constant hike in fuel prices. The result? Exhausted employees, reduced productivity, and significant man-hour losses—all of which negatively affect your business’s bottom line.
The Traffic Nightmare in Lagos
Lagos traffic is infamous. What should be a simple 15-minute drive can easily turn into a two-hour crawl during peak periods. For employees commuting from suburbs like Mowe, Ibafo, Badagry, Iyana-Ipaja, Ikorodu, Sango Ota, and beyond to Island areas like Lekki, Ikoyi, or Victoria Island, the commute is draining—physically, mentally, and financially.
The Cost of Commuting is on the Rise
The removal of fuel subsidies and the subsequent spike in transportation fares have compounded the problem. Many employees now request higher transport allowances, placing an added financial burden on employers. And who can blame them? A significant portion of their salaries is swallowed up by daily transportation costs.
The Real Cost of Long-Distance Commuting
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Loss of productive hours
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Frequent lateness
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Increased absenteeism
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Lower morale and energy levels
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Higher employee turnover
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Declining team performance
Daily exposure to stress, fatigue, and the chaos of Lagos traffic has a real impact on employee well-being, focus, and output.
Why Proximity Matters in Hiring
Employers must now see hiring through a strategic lens. It’s no longer just about skills and qualifications—it’s also about location.
Here’s why hiring employees who live closer to the workplace makes sense:
- Reduced lateness
- Better punctuality
- Higher energy levels and focus
- Improved team cohesion
- Lower turnover rates
If proximity isn’t possible, a hybrid or remote work model can be a game-changer. These flexible setups drastically reduce commute-related stress, cut operational costs, and boost employee satisfaction.
The Solution: Smarter Hiring with Globalclique HR
If you’re ready to take the stress out of recruitment and build a high-performing, reliable team, Globalclique HR is here to help.
We’ll help you hire employees who will:
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Improve productivity and efficiency
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Enhance your client experience
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Boost your profitability
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Strengthen your brand reputation
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Foster a motivated workforce
Our Recruitment Services Include:
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Staff Sourcing
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Resume/CV Evaluation
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Pre-selection & Interview Coordination
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Salary Negotiation Support
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Employee Background Checks
Organisational Development Support:
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Professional Company Profiles
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Mission/Vision/Core Values Development
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Employment Handbooks
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Electronic Staff Attendance Systems
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Staff Appraisal Management Tools
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Onboarding and SOP Documentation
Going Hybrid or Remote? We’ve Got You Covered
If you’re considering a hybrid work model or transitioning your business to remote operations, Globalclique HR can help you design the systems, policies, and digital tools to make the shift smooth and efficient.
Final Thoughts
Hiring in Lagos doesn’t have to be a gamble. By rethinking your recruitment strategy and partnering with HR professionals who understand the terrain, you can build a resilient, productive workforce that drives your business forward, despite the challenges.

I am Bolaji Afolabi, Partner at Globalclique and a passionate Director / COO at Ibugbe. I specialise in delivering Pan-African Workforce/HR, Technology, and Intermediation solutions, with a strategic focus on the Real Estate, Construction, and Allied Industries. Bolaji is celebrated for his expertise in seamlessly blending human capital with cutting-edge technologies and also providing professional advisory services.