Lagos, the country’s economic and cultural hub thanks to an influx of oil money, has a burgeoning arts and music scene that will keep you entertained well beyond dawn. You won’t have any other choice if you’re going to Nigeria but to dive right in.
Lagos, named after the Portuguese term for lagoon, has served as a Yoruba port, a British political hotspot, and, up until 1991, Nigeria’s capital.
Lekki Conservation Centre
This facility, which is run by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, contains a sizable area of wetlands designated for animal viewing. The ideal time to visit is early in the morning, when you may view monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of birds from canopy walkways. A library and a conservation centre are present.
Nike Art Gallery
This vast gallery featuring both contemporary and traditional Nigerian arts is administered by Nike Okundaye, one of the country’s most significant artists. Nike is nearly the epitome of love and beauty, and this astounding four-story building reflects that. If you’re fortunate, she’ll be there and bestow a new Yoruba name onto you. A modest bistro is located on the property.
Terra Kulture
Try the catfish with pounded yam and spicy soup at this warm arts centre with a high bamboo roof that is close to Bar Beach. It is one of the best and most appealing dining establishments in the area. There is a theatre, an art gallery, a bookshop with unique crafts, literary events, and readings.
Lekki Market
This is a great area to roam about and seek for inexpensive gifts because it has a wide selection of crafts from all across Nigeria and West Africa. Here, you may also purchase fabrics and have clothing made to order.
Kalakuta Republic Museum
The former home and political headquarters of legendary musician Fela Kuti is now an interesting museum, complete with Fela’s bedroom. Deep breathing may even make you feel elevated. And if you stay around the rooftop terrace, you might see a band in action.
African Artists’ Foundation
An organisation with a fantastic gallery of current Nigerian art that supports young African and international artists.
National Museum
Despite the museum’s display being a touch shabby, it contains some incredible artifacts. In the Cycle of Life exhibition, traditional Nigerian life is examined from conception to death and beyond. A ceramic Yoruba umbilical cord burial pot and an Egungun masquerade costume worn for dancing at a chief’s funeral are among the exhibits. The voluminous orange cape has sequins, coins, and beads attached.
Tafawa Balewa Square
The commercial centre of Lagos, named after Nigeria’s first prime minister, is home to some impressive landmarks. Huge horse statues, a memorial to the victims of World Wars I and II, and the 1963-built Independence House, which has 26 stories, are among them.
Eleko Beach
The popular beach among affluent Lagosians is Eleko Beach, about 60 kilometres to the east of the city. Here, you may hire a beach hut for the day and have a barbecue prepared for you. A little market offering intriguing art is also present. To get there, you’ll need to hire a drop cab.
