Restaurants, hotels and drivers
Most Lekki restaurants add a 5-7.5% service charge and 7.5% VAT to the bill — check before tipping again. If service charge is included, an extra ₦1,000-₦2,000 in cash for a good server is generous but not required. At places without service charge (smaller spots in Ikate, Agungi, most bukas), 10% is standard. Bartenders on Admiralty Way appreciate ₦500-₦1,000 per round, especially if you want a second one to arrive quickly.
Hotel porters expect ₦500-₦1,000 per bag. Housekeeping ₦1,000-₦2,000 per night left on the pillow. A Bolt driver who helps with luggage or waits without complaining gets ₦500-₦1,000 on top of the fare. Full-day hired drivers should get ₦5,000-₦10,000 at the end of the day plus their lunch bought or paid for.
The dash economy and small etiquette wins
"Dash" is a small tip or gift given for a favour — the security guard who watches your car, the fuel attendant, the guy who guides you into a parking space you could have found yourself. ₦200-₦500 keeps things smooth. It's not corruption, it's the informal service layer, and refusing to participate marks you as clueless rather than principled.
Greet before you transact. "Good morning, how are you?" before asking for a price gets you a better price and warmer service than launching straight into your request. Use your right hand for handing money or receiving items. Dress modestly at Nike Art Gallery, churches and mosques, and any Yoruba traditional event — shoulders covered, no beachwear off the beach. Don’t photograph police, military or the toll gates.
Good to know
Do I tip in dollars or naira?+
Naira. Dollars are inconvenient for the recipient to change at fair rates, and small US bills below $20 are often refused by banks and bureaus. Keep ₦500 and ₦1,000 notes for tips.
Is haggling expected everywhere?+
At Lekki Market, Balogun Market and with street vendors, yes — start at 40-50% of the asking price. At malls, supermarkets, restaurants and hotels, no. The price is the price.