Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and its second-largest economy, boasts a diverse nightlife and pop culture, fueled by urbanization and the rise of young consumers. The restroom selfie trend, in particular, is eye-opening, showcasing the creative design of businesses and the spending power of their female clientele.

Beyond the convenience of using the restroom, women also use it to touch up their makeup and maintain their appearance. Restroom selfies are particularly popular among Nigerians. Restaurants and nightclubs in Nigeria’s major cities, beyond food and DJ sets, also feature creative and opulent restroom decor. The restroom at the Zara restaurant in Lagos, the largest city, boasts gold marble walls, palace-style mirrors, and dazzling lighting and neon signs. Female patrons rush in with their phones to pose for photos, whether for themselves or for friends, capturing every angle possible. The restroom has become a photo op and photo-op destination.

Besides its lavish decor, the restaurant’s restroom also offers a creative service. Press a button and the waiter will bring you champagne. Don’t forget to snap a selfie before enjoying your drink to let others know you’re enjoying the trendy restaurant. While it’s unclear when the bathroom selfie trend began in Nigeria, it’s become a standard feature for restaurant owners.

Restaurant manager Jergis explained, “We need to create fresh experiences and memories for our customers, so they’ll remember us, like being able to tell their friends, ‘I got a glass of champagne in the restroom.’ This is a completely new approach for us.”

Rococo Restaurant in Lagos, known for its trendy, trendy style, quickly gained traction online. The restaurant reported over 6,000 bathroom check-ins within two weeks of opening, and a single photo posted online generated 200 reservations within two hours.

Nigeria’s trendy bathroom aesthetic has taken off on social media, reflecting the importance young Nigerians place on fashion, expression, and self-image, showcasing the vibrant and creative energy of Africa’s emerging urban culture.

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