Lessons from Lagos Rats: Surprisingly useful business advice

Let's be honest, nobody loves rats. But in Nigeria, they're a fact of life. And if you look closely (from a safe distance), you might be surprised at what they can teach us about business and survival.

First, there's adaptability. Lagos rats navigate everything from the chaotic energy of Mile 12 Market to the quiet corners of even bourgeoisie residential compounds.

They adapt to constant change, finding food and shelter wherever they can. This mirrors the entrepreneurial spirit in Nigeria.

Businesses in Lagos constantly adapt to shifting market conditions – from sudden fuel price hikes to changing consumer preferences.

Think about the roadside food vendors who quickly adjust their menus based on the availability of ingredients or the "bend-down select" clothing sellers who adapt their stock to the latest trends.

They learn to bend without breaking. This is crucial for navigating the Nigerian business landscape.

Then we have resourcefulness, or what we might call "street smarts."

These creatures find sustenance in the most unlikely places – a discarded piece of fruit, a spilled grain of rice. This reflects the Nigerian knack for making do with limited resources.

We see this in the countless small businesses that thrive despite limited access to funding or infrastructure.

They use social media for marketing, operate from makeshift stalls or concert a room to a store, and build customer relationships through word of mouth.

They make something from seemingly nothing. They are masters of bootstrapping, a skill that's highly valued in Nigeria's dynamic economy.

Persistence is another key trait. You try getting rid of rats. It's a testament to their determination. This mirrors the Nigerian spirit of resilience. We face numerous challenges – from power outages to traffic congestion – but we keep going. We don't give up easily.

This "we no go gree" attitude is a powerful asset in business and in life. It's the same spirit that drives entrepreneurs to rebuild after setbacks and keep pushing forward despite the odds.

Now, let's talk about community. Rats often live in colonies. While I'm not suggesting you form a literal "rat pack," there's a lesson here about networks.

Strong connections are vital in business, especially in Nigeria.

They provide support, opportunities, and valuable insights. Think of the various market associations, trade groups, and online communities where business owners connect and share knowledge.

However, just like in any community, there can be competition and conflicts. It is crucial to choose your network wisely. Not every gathering is a productive one. It's about finding the right people who can help you grow and thrive.

Finally, there's opportunism. Rats are quick to seize any chance for food or shelter. In business, this means recognising and acting on opportunities.

This is about spotting market gaps, being agile, and taking calculated risks.

Think of the rise of fintech companies in Nigeria, which capitalized on the growing demand for digital financial services. Or the growth of e-commerce platforms that saw the potential of reaching a wider audience through online channels. It's about being ready to pounce when the moment is right.

These lessons, observed from a safe distance of course, offer some surprising insights. They remind us that survival and success often depend on adaptability, resourcefulness, persistence, strong networks, and the ability to seize opportunities. So, the next time you see a rat scurrying by, you might just think twice. There may be a lesson there, if you look closely enough.

Call to Action: What other surprising lessons have you learned from the world around you? Share your thoughts in the comments!

This version is more detailed and provides more concrete examples relevant to the Nigerian business context. It also strengthens the connections between rat behavior and valuable business traits. How does this look now?