With marbled walls, exposed bulbs, and endless mirrors, the bathroom at The Library, a Lagos nightclub, almost seems designed for photos.

A playful sign inside confirms the vibe: “No selfies in the restroom… just kidding.”

Across Nigeria, bathroom selfies are serious business. From Lagos’ bustling nightlife to Abuja’s upscale lounges and Kano’s more conservative clubs, restrooms are being transformed into glamorous spaces meant to dazzle—and attract customers.

Many clubs have invested heavily in renovations, rearranging mirrors, and adjusting lighting to create the perfect backdrop. Marble finishes and golden accents, whether genuine or faux, dominate the design trend.

At Zaza, a popular nightlife destination, a button on the bathroom wall delivers a complimentary glass of champagne through a hidden window—an extra touch aimed at making guests feel special while they strike a pose.

“The decor plays a huge role, especially for Nigerian ladies. We try to make the experience as attractive as possible,” said Johnny Franjeh, assistant general manager of Zaza.

Inside, partygoers adjust their outfits, strike poses, and capture endless angles against floral wallpaper and carefully placed mirrors.

From Abuja to Kano

For clubs, the payoff is clear: free publicity on social media. Every photo shared—especially by influencers with large followings—serves as organic advertising.

One such influencer, Comiebarbie, who boasts 100,000 Instagram followers, admitted that upon arriving at a trendy spot, her first stop is often the restroom: “I quickly go there with my friends to take pictures.”

While bathroom selfies are a global phenomenon, Nigeria’s nightlife scene has given the trend an extravagant twist. In Abuja’s Maitama district, A Bar Called Paper even has a dedicated “selfie room” adorned with psychedelic walls and mirrors offering countless shooting angles.

“The most important thing I’m looking for is a suitable angle,” said Stephanie, 26, who stunned in a sequined halter-neck dress reflecting light across multiple mirrors.

Even in Kano, Nigeria’s cultural and commercial hub in the conservative north, the craze thrives. At Antika lounge, patrons might dress more modestly, but once inside the restroom, they too spend long moments perfecting mirror shots against tropical-themed décor.

The Race to Stand Out

The restroom craze has also sparked rivalries among club owners, with some claiming to be pioneers.

“We started that trend!” insisted Ghada Ghaith, CEO of Rococo, a popular Lagos spot.

She recalled how, just weeks before opening, Rococo staff posted a restroom photo online. Within two hours, 200 reservation requests poured in—many mistaking the bathroom’s chandelier-lit elegance for the main dining area.

With no toilets in sight, it was an easy mistake to make.