Interior designers in Lagos say small changes like fresh flowers, lighting and accessories can transform ageing bathrooms

Many homeowners in Lagos are turning to simple, affordable upgrades to refresh their bathrooms and create a more luxurious feel, interior experts have said. The trend comes as residents seek cost-effective ways to modernise spaces that often become dated within a few years due to fading tiles, dull wall colours and outdated fittings.

According to local designers, the bathroom remains one of the most-used rooms in any house but is frequently neglected during renovations. They recommend practical steps such as adding fresh flowers or plants, introducing brighter lighting, and updating wall paint to instantly uplift the atmosphere. “Even small touches like new towels or a decorative mirror can change the whole vibe,” said one professional based in Victoria Island.

Industry observers note that many Lagos residents are moving away from expensive overhauls towards quick fixes that do not require breaking tiles or major plumbing work. These changes not only improve aesthetics but also help maintain property value in a competitive real estate market. “A well-kept bathroom makes your home feel more inviting and can impress visitors,” said another designer familiar with high-rise apartments in Lekki.

While some landlords have increased rent for flats with modern bathrooms, experts advise tenants to discuss minor improvements with property managers before making changes. As more Nigerians embrace home improvement trends, industry professionals expect demand for easy bathroom makeovers to continue rising across Lagos and other urban centres.

Source: https://guardian.ng/life/living-simple-ways-to-make-your-bathroom-look-more-luxurious/

Stakeholders urge government to invest in libraries and reading programmes as traditional book habits wane

Educators and literacy advocates in Lagos have expressed growing concern over the rapid decline of reading culture among Nigerian youths, attributing the trend to the overwhelming influence of digital technology and social media. The warning came during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Thursday, where experts stressed that a strong reading habit remains vital for intellectual development and national progress.

Participants at the event traced the shift from traditional book reading to digital platforms, noting that while young people are consuming more content online, much of it lacks depth or educational value. “Reading has always been a gateway to knowledge and personal growth, but we are seeing fewer students pick up books for leisure or learning,” one educationist said during the session.

The issue, experts argue, has significant implications for Nigeria’s future workforce and civic life. With global economies becoming increasingly knowledge-driven, participants warned that poor reading habits could limit critical thinking skills and job readiness among youths. They called on both federal and state governments to prioritise investment in public libraries, school-based reading clubs, and nationwide campaigns promoting literacy.

Some attendees acknowledged that digital tools can complement traditional reading if harnessed properly. They urged parents and teachers to encourage balanced media consumption, guiding young people towards educational platforms rather than solely entertainment-focused apps. “We must adapt our approach without abandoning the core values of deep reading,” another speaker noted.

The stakeholders resolved to work with local authorities and private sector partners to revive interest in books through community events, literary competitions, and improved library facilities across Lagos State. They emphasised that safeguarding Nigeria’s reading culture requires concerted effort from all segments of society.

Source: https://guardian.ng/life/saving-the-culture-of-reading-in-a-fast-paced-digital-world/

Dolly Ohanyere highlights rising cases of dissatisfaction in relationships, calls for stronger personal identity among women

Relationship coach Dolly Ohanyere has called on women in Lagos to focus on self-discovery and personal identity before entering romantic partnerships, warning that unresolved questions about one’s self can undermine even the most promising relationships. Ohanyere made this known on Thursday while speaking on relationship dynamics among young Nigerians.

According to Ohanyere, many women approach relationships by asking if their partner is the right fit, without first considering whether they themselves are prepared for a healthy partnership. She noted that neglecting self-awareness leads to recurring arguments, unmet needs and ongoing dissatisfaction that may not be immediately obvious but gradually erode the foundation of the relationship.

Ohanyere, who has spent years coaching individuals and couples across Lagos State, said, “The quality of every relationship is determined primarily by the quality of your relationship with yourself. If you do not know who you are or what you want, it becomes difficult to communicate your needs or maintain stability when challenges arise.”

She further explained that many clients seek guidance only after persistent issues have already set in. “People come for coaching when they are tired of going in circles with the same problems. Often, it turns out they have not taken time to reflect on their own values and expectations,” Ohanyere added.

Experts in Lagos agree that fostering self-understanding is essential for building lasting relationships, especially as societal pressures continue to rise among young people. While there was no immediate response from major women’s advocacy groups as at press time, stakeholders are expected to intensify campaigns around self-development in coming months.

Source: https://guardian.ng/life/your-relationship-is-only-as-strong-as-your-identity/