Three friends had heard many stories about Makoko the floating community built on water but they had never seen it with their own eyes. One sunny morning, curiosity finally pushed them to go.
As their boat slowly moved through the narrow waterways, the first thing that caught their attention was the sight of houses standing proudly on wooden stilts above the water. Children paddled small canoes like it was the most normal thing in the world, while women balanced goods in their boats, selling food and household items from one canoe to another.
The friends looked at each other in amazement. This was a completely different world from the busy streets of Lagos they were used to.
Their guide explained that Makoko is often called the “Venice of Africa,” a place where daily life happens on water. Schools, churches, markets, and homes all exist within this floating community. What looked unusual to outsiders was simply everyday life for the people who lived there.
As they continued their tour, the friends realized something important; Makoko was not just a place, it was a story of resilience. Despite challenges, the community thrives with strong culture, hardworking people, and a unique way of life.
By the time their boat returned to shore, the three friends were quiet for a moment. The visit had opened their eyes.
Sometimes, the most unforgettable journeys are not the ones that take you far away, but the ones that show you a different way of life.
Makoko had done exactly that.
