Liya’u Sa’adu has spent half of his life, 30 years, under the Obalende Bridge in Lagos, Nigeria. At 60, he has become a self-proclaimed "guardian" for the many homeless individuals who have joined him in this makeshift community. Known as Karkashin Gada, which translates to "Under the Bridge" in Hausa, this area is home to over 60 men, most of whom have fled their homes in search of better opportunities in Nigeria's bustling economic hub. Unfortunately, the reality of life in Lagos has left many unable to afford even the most basic shelter.
Mr. Sa’adu arrived in Lagos from Zurmi, a small town in northwestern Zamfara state, in 1994. He recalls how the community has grown since his arrival, stating, “When I came here, there were less than 10 people.” Now, he feels a responsibility to guide newcomers, particularly young men from distant towns who may struggle to navigate the complexities of urban life. He emphasizes the need for street smarts in a city where crime and drugs are prevalent, saying, “It is so easy to lose track here in Lagos.”
Tukur Garba, a 31-year-old resident who moved to Karkashin Gada five years ago, respects Mr. Sa’adu's wisdom and experience. He describes him as an elder brother figure, someone whose advice is invaluable in a city that can easily lead one astray. The increasing number of homeless individuals in Lagos is alarming, with many citing insecurity and economic hardship as driving factors. Adamu Sahara, a long-term resident nearby, points out that the ongoing insurgency and economic decline in northern Nigeria have forced many to flee their homes.
To make life more bearable under the bridge, Mr. Sa’adu has managed to acquire some basic comforts, including a mattress, bedding, and a wooden cabinet. His sleeping arrangement is modest but functional, as he places his mattress atop the cabinet. While he is among the better-off residents, many of his neighbors share sleeping mats and lack basic furniture. The community uses a public bath and toilet, paying a small fee for access, and most meals are purchased from local vendors who cater to the tastes of northern Nigerians.
For Mr. Sa’adu, survival in Lagos is a daily struggle. After starting as a shoe-shiner, he now collects scrap metal from the streets and workshops, selling it for recycling. This work earns him an average of 5,000 naira ($3; £2) a day, which is slightly above the extreme poverty threshold of $1.90 a day. However, he also sends money back to his family in Zamfara, which adds to his financial burden. "It's a continuous struggle," he admits, as he tries to balance his needs with those of his family.
The issue of homelessness in Lagos is exacerbated by government policies that fail to address the root causes. Non-governmental organizations estimate that up to 500,000 people sleep on the streets of Lagos, with Karkashin Gada facing increasing pressure from the Lagos state environmental task force. These officers conduct raids, claiming that residents are living illegally under the bridge. Those caught can face fines of up to 20,000 naira ($12; £9), which can represent a week's income for many. Mr. Garba urges the government to show compassion and address the housing crisis, stating, "Where do they want us to go?"
In Lagos, the government has no plans to provide shelter for the homeless, focusing instead on helping low-income workers buy homes. However, for individuals like Mr. Sa’adu, even the most basic housing options are unaffordable. Renting a shack in informal settlements costs around 100,000 naira ($48; £62) annually, while a small apartment in a working-class area can reach 350,000 naira ($220; £170) per year. Many landlords require a year's rent upfront, making it nearly impossible for those living in poverty to secure stable housing.
As Mr. Sa’adu lies on his mattress beneath the busy bridge, the noise of passing vehicles has become a familiar backdrop to his life. He reflects on his situation with a certain resignation, noting, “Considering what I do, it’s difficult to save enough to get a decent place to stay.” Despite the challenges, he has adapted to his environment, stating that the sounds of the city do not disturb his sleep, especially after a long day of work.
