The End of An Era

I have heard that the clubs and bars that are in the NAPEX (Nigerian Army Postal EXchange) compound on Victoria Island, close to the US Embassy, have been given quit notices. The Nigerian Army has sold the property and the new owner expects them to vacate by 31st of December.

The bars in this area are something of an institution with Expats. A lively environment that has the added safety of a resident Nigerian Army post. Bob's bar on a Friday night probably has the highest number of expat patrons than any other venue that I've visited, with its live Expat band and other regular outdoor live events that are a showcase of Nigerian musical Talent with Bob's Band as the Headline Act.

The Outside Inn is there, which is a bar that makes up for in atmosphere what it lacks in taste, and served the best steak I'd eaten in Lagos (until recently). Ladies of negotiable affection have outnumbered Expats in the evenings in the Outside Inn in recent years, for that reason I usually only go when I really, really crave the Desperate Dan Steak. And then hopefully with a chaperon.

Other bars, Mimis a bar I'll remember for it's pool table and the fact I remember being there on September 11th 2001 transfixed by the news cycle, Outback a Karaoke bar I haven't been in, and Chill Out a night club that has only been open about six months are also to quit.

There are a few other bars, lots of shops and other businesses and of course a large car park servicing them all that will all be closed off January 1st 2007.

What will happen to these businesses? Well overhearing Bob of Bob's Bar this evening, after I went for a meal there, he has no current plans to open anywhere else. "Unless you've got a big bag of dollars for me" he said.

Who is the new owner? I'm told it's none other than lovable ExxonMobil. What their plan is remains to be seen but I naively hope that it is for affordable Residential properties because Victoria Island certainly needs more.

Bob's Bar is hosting their finale outdoor bash on Friday December 1st. It will probably be a great night.