Lagos has recorded 11 public holidays in the first half of the year, a regular occurrence attributed to the celebration of important days in Nigerian history or significant events in her 2 dominant religions – Islam and Christianity. This year, the majority of public holidays have fallen on days closer to the weekend, creating instances of 3 day (or more) weekends. These 3 day weekends have been a Godsend for many workers, as it gives a break from the usual rigor and intensity that comes with working in Lagos.
The city’s large market size, diverse economic sectors and entrepreneurial spirit of its citizens makes it the economic capital of Nigeria. From as early as 5am, Lagos is bustling with activities of people trying to make a living for themselves. Surviving in the state requires a dedication to the grind, which oftentimes comes at the expense of other essential parts of human existence, like one’s mental and physical health.
The break from insanity public holidays give are received with such happiness, and those who complain about their frequency are simply disingenuous. Think back to the atmosphere in the city during the public holidays. The roads were mostly free of traffic, people were socialising with friends and regardless of religious orientation or (dis)pleasure with the political climate of the country, Lagosians were united by the shared joy of sleeping in.
Although our experiences are enough proof that we need a 3 day weekend, there have been studies in other countries that support this. A 3 day weekend experiment was conducted in the UK and other places last year and it was found that there was a boost of productivity, morale and team culture.
In case you are not already convinced, here are more reasons why Lagos state needs a 3 day weekend.
Cost of Transportation
The whole country has been battling with the aftereffects of the removal of fuel subsidies and while some companies have taken steps to reduce the burden on its employees by giving travel allowances or reducing days working from the office, this is a privilege only a few get. With a 3 day weekend, Lagosians will at least cut the cost of transportation. A step further would be to implement the 3 day work week for private and public sector workers like some Nigerian states have done in response to the fuel subsidy removal – although only public sector workers were given 3 day work weeks in Kwara and Edo state. .
Work-Life Balance
A 3 day weekend would significantly contribute to achieving a better work-life balance for Lagosians who often find it challenging to have a healthy balance between their professional and personal lives. By introducing a 3 day weekend, employees will have an extra day to do activities that improve their wellbeing, like attending social gatherings, spending time with family or simply resting. This is bound to reduce stress levels hiked by work and increase job satisfaction and productivity.
Improved Physical and Mental Health
The demanding nature of work and the stress associated with city living can take a toll on individuals’ physical and mental health. Lagos being a competitive environment requires employees to work long hours and code with high levels of stress. A 3 day weekend would afford an extended break which will allow individuals to take up self care exercises and perform activities that promote their health. The rate at which people burnout will also significantly reduce.
The implementation of a 3 day weekend in Lagos has the potential to improve the lives of Lagosians. It will reduce the levels of agitation in the country and provide a calmer environment where Lagosians are not battling for medals in who is more frustrated in life. The fact that Lagos is the financial capital of the country points out that its inhabitants are very hardworking people and as such, an extra day of rest is most assuredly not going to make them lazier. It is more likely to improve their quality of life rather than be a hindrance.