How Digital Nomads Can Travel Sustainably in Nigeria’s Urban Hubs

Philip SifonMarch 4, 2025062 views

As a digital nomad, you probably love the freedom to work from anywhere while exploring new places. But have you ever been taught how to travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hub?

With bustling cities like Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt offering exciting opportunities, it is essential to make eco-conscious choices while enjoying Nigeria’s vibrant culture, delicious food, and rich history.

This article will look at practical ways to travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs, from transport to food choices. Let’s jump right in!

8 Ways Digital Nomads Can Travel Sustainably in Nigeria’s Urban Hubs

Choose sustainable accommodation
Opt for eco-friendly transport
Work from eco-friendly co-working spaces
Be mindful of energy and water use
Support local and sustainable dining
Shop sustainably and support local artisans
Reduce digital waste
Engage in responsible tourism activities

1. Choose Sustainable Accommodation

Where you stay plays a significant role in how eco-friendly your travels are. Fortunately, many hotels and short-let apartments now embrace sustainability. To travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs, look for accommodation that:

Use energy-efficient appliances and solar power.
Implement water recycling and water conservation practices.
Supports local communities through a fair environment and locally sourced products.

Platforms like Airbnb and eco-friendly boutique hotels in Lagos and Abuja provide sustainable lodging options while giving you a comfortable stay.

2. Opt for Eco-Friendly Transport

One of the best ways to travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs is by using greener transport options. While private cars are standard, they contribute significantly to pollution and traffic congestion. Instead, consider the following:

Carpooling: Apps like Bolt and Uber offer shared rides, which reduce emissions and costs.
Public Transport: BRT buses in Lagos and mass transit services in Abuja are more sustainable than taxis or ride-hailing services.
Cycling and Walking: Some parts of Abuja and Victoria Island in Lagos have pedestrian-friendly spaces, making walking or cycling a viable option.
Electric or Hybrid Vehicles: If you must rent a car, look for fuel-efficient or hybrid models to minimise your carbon footprint.

Smart transport choices allow you to travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs without sacrificing convenience.

3. Work From Eco-Friendly Co-Working Spaces

Having a reliable place to work is essential as a digital nomad. You can travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs by choosing coworking spaces that promote green practices. Look for:

Energy-efficient lighting and solar-powered facilities
Recycling bins and paperless policies
Green spaces that improve air quality and reduce heat

Some great eco-conscious co-working spaces in Nigeria include Cre8 in Lagos and Ventures Park in Abuja. Not only do they provide excellent networking opportunities, but they also align with your sustainable lifestyle.

4. Be Mindful of Water Use

Nigeria’s power supply can be unpredictable, which makes energy conservation even more critical. To travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs, take simple steps like the following:

Unplugging chargers and electronics when not in use
Using energy-efficient bulbs and appliances
Taking shorter showers to reduce water consumption

If possible, stay in accommodations with solar power and support renewable energy businesses.

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5. Support Local and Sustainable Dining

Food is a massive part of Nigerian culture, and eating sustainably is an excellent way to travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs. Instead of relying on international fast-food chains, consider the following:

Eating at Local Restaurants: Enjoy farm-to-table meals at places that source ingredients locally. This supports farmers and reduces the carbon footprint from food transport.
Reducing Food Waste: Order only what you can eat and take leftovers.
Bring reusable Utensils: Reduce plastic waste by carrying your cutlery, straws, and reusable water bottles.

Lagos, in particular, has a growing eco-conscious dining scene, with restaurants focusing on organic and locally grown food.

6. Shop Sustainably and Support Local Artisans

Shopping is essential to travelling, but being mindful of your purchases can help you travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs. Instead of buying mass-produced souvenirs, support local artisans by:

Visiting local markets like Lekki Arts and Crafts Market in Lagos or Jabi Market in Abuja
Buying handmade crafts, fabrics, and jewellery directly from artisans
Avoiding plastic packaging and opting for reusable bags

This reduces waste, supports small businesses, and preserves traditional craftsmanship.

7. Reduce Digital Waste

You rely heavily on technology as a digital nomad, but digital sustainability is just as important. Here’s how to travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs while being mindful of your tech habits:

Store files in the cloud instead of using excessive hard drives
Reduce email spam and unnecessary data storage
Use rechargeable batteries for devices like wireless keyboards and mice

You can contribute to a more sustainable world by managing your digital footprint.

8. Engage in Responsible Tourism Activities

When exploring Nigeria’s urban hubs, choose activities that promote sustainability and cultural appreciation. To travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs, consider:

Visiting conservation centres like Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos
Exploring historical sites that are well-maintained and contribute to local heritage
Participating in eco-tourism experiences that focus on wildlife and environmental preservation

Responsible tourism ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy these beautiful locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Does it Mean to Travel Sustainably in Nigeria’s Urban Hubs?

Travelling sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs means making eco-friendly choices while exploring cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Akwa Ibom.

2. Is Sustainable Travel Expensive in Nigeria?

Not necessarily! Public transport, local markets, and shared workspaces often cost less than luxury alternatives. Making conscious choices saves money while benefiting the environment.

3. What is the Biggest Sustainability Challenge Facing Travellers in Nigeria?

The biggest challenge is waste management, as many urban hubs struggle with recycling infrastructure.

Final Thought

Travelling as a digital nomad comes with great freedom, but it also comes with responsibility. By making conscious choices in transport, accommodation, food, shopping, and digital workspaces, you can travel sustainably in Nigeria’s urban hubs without compromising comfort or productivity.

Next time you pack your bags for Lagos, Abuja, or any other vibrant Nigerian city, remember that small, eco-friendly changes can make a big difference. Happy (and sustainable) travels!