A Brief Overview of Lagos State: The Commercial Capital of Nigeria
Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, is the largest city in Africa, divided into two major districts: the Mainland and the Island.
Lagos is best known for being the most exclusive city in Nigeria to reside. It is the economic nerve centre of Nigeria and West Africa.
The metropolis is Nigeria’s most densely populated city, with congested streets and massive traffic jams.
Lagos State has magnificent beaches, skyscrapers, outstanding parks, the best entertainment options, the most job opportunities, and a host of others.
Lagos is also one of the top ten fastest-growing cities and urban areas globally.
Is Lagos Safe at Night?
Lagos was once a perilous destination for potential tourists, but it is now much safer as a result of the state spending a lot of money on police, security, and a host of others.
The state government has taken various measures to ensure that Lagos residents and tourists are able to move around the city, without fear of pickpocketing or kidnapping, at night.
9 Safe Places in Lagos State for foreigners
There are several places that are very safe to stay in Lagos. Much of these areas are situated on the island. This means that residing on the island is much safer than on the mainland.
Here are safe places to reside in Lagos State:
1. Ikoyi
Ikoyi is an upscale suburb in Lagos State. Located in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area, it is popularly known as home to remarkable upper-class people in the country.
It is also one of the affluent communities in Lagos.
In terms of security, Ikoyi is one of the safest areas in the megacity.
People willing to relocate to Lagos are often encouraged to buy a house or rent an apartment in Ikoyi.
Ikoyi is also an ideal place to situate a business. There are also remarkable nursery and secondary schools located in Ikoyi.
2. Yaba
Yaba is commonly referred to as the ‘Silicon Valley of Nigeria.’
This is because many tech startups, such as Andela and Co-Creation Hub, are situated in Yaba.
Yaba is one of the safest places to stay in Lagos, despite being situated on the mainland.
Several education institutions are situated in Yaba.
Some of them include The University of Lagos, Yaba College of Technology, Queens College, Igbobi College, Federal Science and Technical College, and the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research.
Yaba is also a major commercial centre. Tejuosho Market, located in Yaba, is one of the busiest market sites in Lagos.
3. Magodo
Also situated on the mainland, it is on the outskirts of Lagos, near Ikeja and Ojodu Berger. Magodo is primarily a residential district widely recognized to house some of society’s most affluent members.
Magodo has a serene and secure environment that is perfect for people to reside in with their family members.
4. Ikeja
One of the city’s safest neighborhoods is the capital of Lagos State- Ikeja.
Ikeja is considered Lagos’ central business district.
It is home to the majority of government parastatals, as well as the Governor’s office and the government house.
The Muritala Muhammed International Airport is situated in Ikeja. It also houses the busy Ikeja City Mall, which comprises several commercial centres and Computer Village. In addition, Lagbaja’s Motherland and Fela’s Africa Shrine are also located in Ikeja.
Ikeja Government Residential Area (Ikeja GRA) is one of the safest places to live in Lagos State.
5. Surulere
Surulere is a safe place to reside on the island.
Anyone seeking to rent an affordable apartment in a secure location should consider areas such as Shitta, Bode Thomas, Orile, and Coker.
Surelere also has well-known landmarks, including Teslim Balogun Stadium, National Arts Theatre, Amala Shitta, National Stadium, and so much more.
It has also produced several notable personalities, such as Aliko Dangote, Desmond Elliot, Wizkid, and Simi.
6. Apapa
Located on Lagos Island’s western side, Apapa is one of the most secure places to live in Lagos.
Apapa is also a vibrant business district.
Warehouses, terminals, and ports are situated in Apapa. In addition, shipping companies, railway stations, and so much more, can also be found in this region.
There are also nice and secure estates people can reside with their families.
7. Victoria Island
Victoria Island, popular known as VI, is one of the expensive suburbs in Lagos State.
Located in Eti-Osa LGA, it is one of the most secure places to live in the city.
It is bounded by Lagos Island, Ikoyi, and thus the Lekki Peninsula.
Victoria Island has become a preferred location for large multinational corporations in Nigeria. Since 1985, VI has been the preferred headquarters of many large companies and businesses such as financial institutions, schools, restaurants, and a host of others.
8. Lekki-Ajah
Lekki-Ajah axis is the perfect place to raise a family.
In terms of security, it is one of the ideal places to live and work.
Lekki can be referred to as the ‘Beverly Hills’ of Nigeria. It is a settling place for most celebrities and foreigners working in the country.
This area also has quality medical centres, standard and well-equipped schools, recreational facilities, and so much more.
9. Festac
Festac provides easy access to Ikotun, Mushin, Surulere, Ikeja, and even Oshodi via road. Festac is home to some of the most fascinating facts and history about Lagos.
Festac is a peaceful area in Lagos State.
This area is known for its dependable power supply, easily accessible police and fire stations, and state-of-the-art supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, health centers, and post offices.
Living in Festac allows you to make the most of your time in Lagos.
Can You Go Out at Night in Lagos?
Yes, residents and tourists can explore the city at any time- even at night.
The centre of excellence, as one of the world’s most populated urban areas, is a city that never sleeps and is the ideal place to unwind at night. In Lagos, the nightlife is incredible. However, there can never be a ‘dull moment’ in the various nightlife spots, so Lasgidi never disappoints night crawlers and fun-seekers.
Can You Have a Road Walk in Lagos?
Yes, you can have a road walk in the city. However, it would be best if you targeted less busy roads such as areas within the estate you reside and places on the island.
Does the Lagos State Government Take Safety Serious?
Yes, the Lagos state government reacts timely to security issues.
The Lagos state government has established several agencies to tackle security issues in the city. Some of them include Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), and Lagos State Ambulance Services (LASAMBUS).
Places Where Expatriates/Foreigners Live in Lagos
Most expatriates prefer to live in the city’s most affluent neighborhoods, which include Ikoyi (particularly the opulent Banana Island), Ikeja, Apapa, and Victoria Island.
Ikoyi, in particular, appears to be a popular destination for oil and gas workers and their families. These areas are incredibly safe.
Abbey Johnson has a Masters degree as an engineer and has over 3 years of teaching and research experience. He is happiest when on a bike and is also interested in electric energy and computer Science.