Lagos was a vibrant metropolis in the late 1960s and early 1970s that managed to maintain its sense of tranquility. The city had not yet encountered the strains of infrastructure, population growth, and fast urbanization that would occur in subsequent decades. The streets were bustling with vibrant marketplaces, people traveling at a leisurely pace on bicycles and vintage buses, and a slower way of life that many people today would find nostalgic. Only a few years had passed since Nigeria attained independence in 1960, and there was a tangible sense of hope for a new country. Compared to now, there was less social and economic inequality, and people moved through the streets with a feeling of community.
There was a strong sense of security because communities were closer together and families frequently knew their neighbors. Even though there were undoubtedly difficulties, such as political unpredictability and the early post-colonial growing pains, the average person’s daily life was generally less stressful and there were less violent crimes. Lagos has undergone a spectacular metamorphosis in the past 50 years, seeing tremendous expansion and development, but it has also faced growing challenges.
With more than 20 million residents, Lagos is now a bustling megacity that faces problems including urban sprawl, traffic congestion, and an increased rate of crime, making the calm, relaxed atmosphere of 54 years ago a thing of the past.
We are reminded of the contrast between the Lagos of the past and the complexity of the present by this movie, which documents a nostalgic period in Nigeria’s history.
It serves as a reminder that, even if advancement is vital, it is worthwhile to consider the simplicity and serenity of bygone eras.