Lagos traffic is the central fact of life in the city. Plan everything around it — leave early or leave very late.
Cars and apps: Uber and Bolt both operate citywide and are by far the most pleasant way to move around. LagRide is the city-backed alternative. Confirm the route and the rate before getting in. For longer trips, hiring a driver-and-car for the day is reasonable value.
BRT (Bus Rapid Transit): the dedicated red BRT buses on the Ikorodu–TBS corridor and the Oshodi–Abule-Egba corridor are clean, air-conditioned and surprisingly fast. They beat sitting in your own car. Pay with a Cowry Card.
Ferries: the network of public ferries across Lagos Lagoon (Lagos Ferry Service, LagFerry) connects the islands and the mainland — a useful alternative to the bridges at rush hour. The Marina–Apapa and CMS–Ikorodu lines are the main routes.
Danfos and keke: the yellow minibuses (danfos) and three-wheelers (keke) are everywhere, cheap, and chaotic. Useful for short distances if you know where you're going; otherwise stick to apps.
Walking is fine inside the gated areas of Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Lekki; it is not really an option in the older parts of Lagos Island except with a guide.