Nightclubs across Nigeria are transforming their restrooms into stylish selfie spots, using marble walls, bright lights, floral wallpaper, and mirrors to attract young partygoers and boost their social media presence.
At The Library, a Lagos nightclub, the bathroom greets guests with marble finishes, exposed bulbs, and a playful sign that reads: “No selfies in the restroom… just kidding.”
From Lagos to Abuja and even Kano, the trend is spreading. Clubs are investing in restroom makeovers to draw in customers and encourage free online publicity.
At Zaza, a popular Lagos club, pressing a button on the bathroom wall brings out a complimentary glass of champagne through a small window.
“The decor plays a huge role, especially for Nigerian ladies. And we try to attract as much as we can,” said Johnny Franjeh, the club’s assistant general manager.
Women often gather in these restrooms to adjust their outfits, take selfies, and share them instantly online. The walls are decorated with bold prints, and mirrors are arranged at different angles for better shots.
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Influencers say they also play a part in the trend. Instagram star Comiebarbie, who has 100,000 followers, admitted, “One of the first things I do when I get to a trendy place is to quickly go to the restroom with my friends so I can take pictures.”
In Abuja’s upscale Maitama district, A Bar Called Paper offers a psychedelic “selfie room” near its women’s restroom. “The most important thing I’m looking for is a suitable angle,” said Stephanie, a 26-year-old guest in a sequined dress that sparkled in the mirrors.
The selfie fever has reached Kano, where lounges like Antika attract youth in a more conservative setting. Here, dresses are modest and makeup is subtle, but patrons still spend long moments posing in front of mirrors decorated with tropical wallpaper.
The competition among clubs is fierce.
“We invented that trend!” claimed Ghada Ghaith, CEO of Rococo in Lagos. She recalled how posting a photo from the bar’s restroom weeks before its opening drew massive attention. “Maybe two hours later… we got like 200 requests for booking,” she said, noting that many mistook the restroom for the main venue.
With chandeliers, marble, and even free champagne, Nigerian clubs are proving that in the age of Instagram, the restroom is no longer just a restroom—it’s a stage.