Planning or hosting an event in Nigeria is not beans. From Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt to Ibadan, we’ve been on ground to cover over 50 events weddings, concerts, church programs, tech conferences, even owambe birthdays. After all these experiences, here are three key lessons we’ve picked up that every event organizer, vendor, or guest should know:

1. Expect the Unexpected (Seriously)

No matter how perfectly planned an event seems on paper, Nigerian events always come with surprises. Sometimes the DJ comes late, sometimes NEPA (sorry, PHCN) takes light in the middle of a keynote, or the caterer brings jollof without enough chicken.

Lesson? Always have a Plan B (and even a Plan C). Backup power, extra vendors, last-minute logistics anything can happen, and usually does.

2. Timing is Flexible, But Don’t Overdo It

“Nigerian Time” is real. When an invite says 2PM, many people will stroll in at 4PM. But we’ve also seen how poor timing can affect the whole flow of an event. Vendors get frustrated. Guests leave early. Performers get rushed.

Lesson? Communicate clearly with vendors and key guests. Start early (even if you’ll start late) and keep the energy flowing so people don’t lose interest.

3. Vibes Matter More Than Perfection

We’ve seen events where the sound system had issues, but the crowd was still hyped. Why? Because the vibe was right. The MC was engaging, the host was warm, and people felt at home. In Nigeria, people don’t always remember décor or lighting but they’ll remember how they felt.

Lesson? Focus on creating good energy. Treat guests well. Choose the right MC or DJ who knows how to carry the crowd. That’s what makes the event memorable.

Conclusion

Covering 50 events across Nigeria has shown us that successful events are less about perfection and more about preparation, people, and positive energy. Whether you’re planning a wedding in Abeokuta or a corporate event in Lekki, these three lessons will save you stress and help you create experiences people won’t forget.