Lagos runs on tradespeople: tailors, mechanics, electricians, hairdressers, welders, phone repairers, caterers. Most learned by apprenticeship, and a good trade still offers a living that a degree sometimes does not.
Apprenticeship
The traditional route is to apprentice yourself to a master — an oga or madam — for a fixed period, learning by working.
- The terms are agreed with the master, often by family: how long, what the apprentice pays or is paid, whether food or accommodation are given, and what the apprentice receives at the end.
- “Freedom” is the ceremony at the end, when the master releases the apprentice as qualified, often with tools or help to start a business.
Agree the terms in writing before you start, including what happens if the master closes shop or the apprentice leaves early. Disputes over unwritten terms are common.
Vocational and technical colleges
Technical colleges, polytechnics and vocational training centres, including those run by Lagos State, teach trades formally, with certificates. Many offer short courses for adults alongside full programmes.
Short courses
Private academies teach catering, fashion design, make-up, solar installation, coding and much else in weeks or months. Check what the certificate is worth to employers, and talk to people who finished the course before paying.
Starting on your own
Once you have the skill, the business side matters as much: registering a business name, keeping records, pricing your work, and tax.
Registering a business Freelancing, and the tax on it Finding a tradesperson