ASPIRATIONS FOR THE 'GOOD LIFE' IN LAGOS: EXPLORING LOCAL CONCEPTIONS OF WELLBEING AND 'BETA LIFE'

There is a growing desire for a better life in Nigeria. Due to the significant economic inequalities and structural gaps among citizens, the elements of a better life vary and are expressed in different ways. This article focuses on Lagos State. The question, therefore, is what constitutes a good life for people living in Lagos? Research on how Lagos residents conceive of a better life is notably scarce. The good life approach and the capability approach are theoretical frameworks that reflect the human capacity to envision a better life. How Lagosians assign meaning to their life experiences and act upon them was examined. A blended conceptualisation approach (‘good life’ and capability approach) effectively helps to assess and ensure the desired good life. This study draws on unstructured in-person interviews and semi-structured virtual interviews with 30 participants, complemented by digital ethnography of social media discussions. Findings show that good health was the most valued component of a 'beta life', followed closely by education, peace of mind, and secure livelihoods. Economic insecurity, unfavourable governance, and external pressures emerged as the main obstacles to achieving these aspirations.