Lagos, the economic capital of Nigeria, is a bustling metropolis that is home to a diverse range of markets. From street-side stalls to massive shopping complexes, the city has something to offer every shopper. These markets are not only popular among locals but also attract tourists from all over the world who come to experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique products on offer.
In this post, we will be exploring the top 10 most popular markets in Lagos, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you are a seasoned shopper or a first-time visitor, this list is sure to help you navigate the best markets that Lagos has to offer. So, let’s dive in and discover the exciting world of Lagosian markets!
Top 10 Most Popular Markets in Lagos
1. Balogun Market
Every day, Balogun Market in Lagos attracts a significant number of visitors from all over Nigeria. For many families, this market is a vital source of income as they rely on it as their breadbasket. Traders who import and resell goods convene in the market as early as 5:00 AM on specific market days to purchase and resell their products. Some traders arrive even earlier to purchase goods from wholesalers and sell them in the same market to make a profit.
Balogun Market is a one-stop shop where you can find almost everything you need. There are different sections for various goods and services, including cloth, provisions, accessories, and bridal items. It is a primary destination for anyone in search of “Asoebi” for weddings and other “Owambe” parties.
Although visiting Balogun Market can be a bit stressful due to the crowd, it is an unforgettable experience. The market is always bustling with people, and it is essential to keep an eye on your belongings as there are numerous pickpockets. Therefore, while enjoying your shopping experience, it is crucial to keep your purses and bags safe.
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2. Computer Village
Situated in Ikeja, Lagos, Computer Village is the largest technology market in Nigeria and Africa. It is predominantly populated by prominent phone sales shops, laptop shops, phone accessories shops, phone repairers, and sim activation shops.
The market is open every day, except on Sundays and public holidays. It is a perfect market in which the price of goods is not influenced by any dealer within the market. This is because there is healthy competition among the dealers. The market started as a small cluster of shops in the late 1990s and has grown to become a bustling hub for technology products and services.
Computer Village attracts a daily average of 100,000 visitors, making it one of the busiest markets in Lagos. The market generates an estimated revenue of over $2 billion annually. Computer Village is a major trading hub for mobile phones, laptops, accessories, and other technological gadgets.
The market is known for its vast selection of products, competitive prices, and excellent customer service. Computer Village has over 3,000 shops and employs thousands of people, making it a significant contributor to the Nigerian economy.
The market has a vibrant community of skilled technicians who offer repair and maintenance services for various technological gadgets.
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3. Oshodi Market
Oshodi is a significant area in Lagos, serving as a connection point to other parts of the city. Following the demolition of the old Owonifari location, the market has been relocated to Isopakodowo. The new market comprises over 600 shops and hundreds of kee Clamps, accommodating Asoebi marketers, foodstuffs sellers, and fruit sellers.
Oshodi market has a reputation for being dominated by pickpockets and handbag snatchers. Despite this, many people still choose to shop at the market due to the affordable prices of the goods.
4. Alaba Market
Alaba International Market is a renowned electronics market in Africa, and its reputation extends beyond the borders of Lagos. Located in Alaba, Ojo, the market attracts customers from neighboring countries, earning it the title of an international market. It is open every day except on Sundays and public holidays.
With over five thousand shops, not including attachments and sub-shops, Alaba market is a bustling hub for electronics trade. More than two million people transact business in the market on a daily basis. It is accessible from Badagry through the Badagry-Oshodi-Apapa Expressway via Iyana Iba or Volks, and can also be reached from any part of Lagos via Mile 2/Festac Town to Volks.
5. Mile 12
Located in the Ketu Local Government area of Lagos state, the Mile 12 market has been providing affordable bulk perishable food items to Lagosians, Nigerians, and even for importation for about 30 years. It is a go-to destination for people from far and wide seeking the benefits of the market.
A well-known fact about the Mile 12 market in Lagos is that it is the largest perishable food market in Nigeria, and one of the largest in West Africa. The market handles an enormous quantity of food items daily, with several thousands of metric tons of foodstuffs transacted on a daily basis. It is an important hub for food distribution in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria, with produce sourced from various parts of the country and beyond. The market has become a crucial part of Lagos’s economy and food supply chain.
The market offers a variety of food items such as fruits, tomatoes, pepper, onions, yam, yam flour, vegetable and palm oils, and many other edible items. Non-edible items are also available for purchase. Hawkers line the outside of the market, while inside, people move from one section to another to find their desired goods. Buying foodstuffs in bulk from the Mile 12 market is a great way to save money.
6. Tejuosho/Yaba Market
Tejuosho market in Lagos has undergone a remarkable transformation from its former rowdy and disorganized state into an ultra-modern market, boasting a beautiful and serene environment. The market is a hub for various businesses including dollar changers, gold sellers, and curtain and clothing retailers, making it an ideal place for affordable shopping. The night market in Tejuosho offers a bustling and lively atmosphere with a high volume of people moving around. However, visitors need to be cautious of pickpockets who are known to operate in the area. Despite this, Tejuosho market remains an excellent shopping destination in Lagos.
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7. Jankara Market
Jankara Market in Lagos is a popular destination for shoppers looking for locally made goods. From Curtains, shoes, tie-dyed cloth to trade beads, jewellery, pottery, clothing, and even pirate cassettes, this market has it all. Dominated by Igbo traders, Jankara Market is known for its affordable prices and competitive prices. A visit to Jankara Market promises to be a memorable shopping experience.
8. Oyingbo
Oyingbo market is one of the oldest and largest markets in Lagos State, Nigeria. Located in the Ebute-Metta area of Lagos, the market serves as a major hub for traders and buyers of foodstuffs, clothing, electronics, and other household items. The market is known for its chaotic but bustling atmosphere, with traders and buyers jostling for space and attention. Oyingbo market is open every day of the week, except for public holidays.
One of the major attractions of Oyingbo market is the availability of fresh food items. The market is popular for its supply of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other foodstuffs, which are sourced from different parts of the country. The market also has a section dedicated to the sale of meat and poultry products, which are usually sold at affordable prices. Additionally, there are a number of food vendors and eateries within the market, where shoppers can enjoy local delicacies.
Oyingbo market is also known for its clothing and textile section. The market has a wide variety of fabrics and materials for both men and women, ranging from traditional prints to modern designs. The market is also a major hub for second-hand clothing, with traders importing bales of used clothing from Europe and America for resale. Oyingbo market is a must-visit for anyone looking to get good deals on clothing and household items in Lagos.
9. Ladipo Market
Ladipo market, located in Mushin, Lagos, is renowned for its position as the primary spare parts market in Nigeria. The market is a hub for mechanics, car owners, and those in search of fairly used cars, spare parts, and phones. The market is highly popular and strategically located, making it easily accessible for those in search of these products.
The market is largely dominated by Igbo traders who have become professionals in the auto parts industry. With over 10,000 shops, the market has an extensive range of products that cater to the diverse needs of customers. From engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and wheels to electrical components, Ladipo market has everything that an automobile needs.
Visitors to Ladipo market will find that the prices of the products and services are competitive and affordable. One unique feature of this market is the option to purchase fairly used car parts, which provides a budget-friendly alternative for those looking to repair their vehicles. Despite the availability of second-hand parts, the quality of the products is maintained through the expertise of the traders and mechanics in the market.
10. Aswani
Aswani market in Lagos may not be well-known to many, but it is one of the go-to places for purchasing affordable items in Lagos. It is situated beside the Isolo Local Government Council office and is reputed for selling fairly used items at ridiculously cheap prices. Clothing items, for instance, can be purchased for as low as 200 NGN. The market also has traders selling new clothing items per yard, bags, shoes, underwears, and even foodstuffs. One can even get damaged electrical equipment or tools fixed for as low as 500 NGN.
Aswani market is open every day of the week, but Mondays are designated for shoes and bags sales, while the market runs fully on Tuesdays. Visitors to the market can easily find almost every item they need at affordable prices. Even if one is not necessarily shopping, a visit to the market can be a unique sightseeing experience.
Aswani market is known for its vibrant and bustling atmosphere, with traders inviting passers-by to check out their wares. One should, however, be cautious of pickpockets who may take advantage of the crowded environment. Overall, a visit to Aswani market can be a great opportunity to get amazing bargains while experiencing the bustling energy of one of Lagos’ markets.
Others are;
Agege Market
This market is popular for its affordable prices on various items, including foodstuff, clothing materials, and cosmetics. Shoppers can enjoy significant savings when buying these products in bulk. The market is a go-to destination for people looking to purchase everyday essentials at lower prices.
Address: 20140 Morton Rd #100, Katy
Nearest Bus stop: AP Filling Station Pencinima Agege
Abattoir Meat Market
This is a sprawling market where meat dealers converge to sell and slaughter cows, sheep, and cattle on a daily basis. The market offers raw beef and live cows at unbeatable prices that are often half the cost of other markets. Additionally, customers can purchase ponmo, livestock, and agriculture/farm products at wholesale prices. This market is a haven for those seeking affordable food items, making it a popular destination for food vendors and household shoppers alike. With its impressive selection and unbeatable prices, this market is a must-visit for anyone looking to purchase quality meat and agricultural products in bulk.
Address: Oko Oba Agege Lagos Nigeria
Nearest Bus Stop: TabonTabon Agege and Oja Oba Abule egba
Bar Beach Market
The Bar Beach Market, located in Lagos, offers an array of fresh fish and a limited selection of handicrafts, which may appeal to foreigners, art enthusiasts, and experts. Travelers are often drawn to places like the Bar Beach Market as it is conveniently situated near a variety of hotels, making it easily accessible. Visitors can purchase items such as wood carvings, masks, paintings, bangles, and some food items at this market. The market provides a unique cultural experience that captures the essence of Lagos.
Location: On Victoria Island (VI)
Bariga Market
This bustling market offers a diverse range of products, from clothing to food items. Freshly butchered meats of various animals – cows, goats, pigs, and chickens – hang from hooks, their lifeless eyes gazing at potential customers as if beseeching them to take them away from the busy marketplace.
Location: Adebayor Street, Bariga, Shomolu, Lagos
Nearest Bus Stop: Ilaje
Lagos is truly a shopper’s paradise, with its diverse range of markets offering everything from traditional crafts to modern fashion. Our list of the top 10 most popular markets in Lagos has only scratched the surface of what this city has to offer. Each market on this list has its own unique appeal, and we hope that this guide has inspired you to explore them all. Whether you are in search of unique souvenirs or simply looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Lagosian markets, you are sure to find something to suit your tastes. So, grab your shopping bags and get ready to experience the magic of Lagosian markets!
