Ikeja is the capital of Lagos State and the seat of the state government, which sits at the Alausa Secretariat. It is one of the busiest districts on the Lagos mainland, mixing government offices, markets, residential estates and a lively food and nightlife scene.
Lagos's international and domestic airports are in Ikeja, so for many visitors it is the first part of the city they see. Its central position on the mainland also makes it a practical base for getting to Yaba, Surulere, Ikorodu and the islands.
Top things to do in Ikeja
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Browse Computer Village
Computer Village, around Otigba Street, is one of the largest markets for phones, laptops, accessories and repairs in Africa. Hundreds of traders and repairers work from shops and stalls, so compare prices before you buy and check every item carefully.
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Eat out around Ikeja GRA and Allen Avenue
Ikeja GRA, Allen Avenue, Opebi and the streets around them are full of restaurants, lounges, bars and suya spots. Evenings and weekends are busy, and many places host live bands, DJs and karaoke nights.
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Shop and watch a film
Ikeja has some of the largest shopping centres on the Lagos mainland, with cinemas, supermarkets, fashion stores and food courts under one roof. They are a common meeting point on hot or rainy days.
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Ride the Red Line
The Lagos Red Line commuter train stops at Ikeja on its route between Agbado and Oyingbo, with stations at Agege, Oshodi, Mushin and Yaba along the way. It is a quick way to skip road traffic on the mainland.
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Catch a show or conference
Hotels, event centres and halls across Ikeja host concerts, comedy nights, church conventions, trade exhibitions and business conferences throughout the year, so check what is on before you visit.
Festivals and culture
As the state capital, Ikeja hosts official ceremonies, exhibitions and public events at Alausa. Its event centres are busy with weddings, birthday parties and corporate gatherings most weekends, and December brings extra concerts and parties across the mainland.
Food to try
Look for amala with ewedu and gbegiri at local bukas, ofada rice with ayamase sauce, pepper soup, suya and grilled fish in the evenings, and small chops at parties. Shawarma and grills are popular late-night choices around Allen Avenue.
Best time to visit
November to March is dry and the most comfortable time to visit. December is the busiest month for events. The rainy season runs from about April to October, and heavy downpours can slow traffic.
Getting around
Ride-hailing apps and taxis are the easiest way to move around Ikeja. The Red Line train stops at Ikeja, BRT buses run along the Lagos-Abeokuta corridor nearby, and the airports are a short drive away. Expect heavy traffic on Obafemi Awolowo Way and around Allen Avenue at rush hour.
Questions about Ikeja
Is Ikeja the capital of Lagos State?
Yes. Ikeja is the capital of Lagos State, and the state government is based at the Alausa Secretariat.
What is Computer Village in Ikeja?
Computer Village is a large market around Otigba Street where traders sell and repair phones, computers and electronics. It is one of the biggest markets of its kind in Africa.
Is Ikeja close to the airport?
Yes. Lagos's international and domestic airports are in Ikeja, a short drive from Allen Avenue and Ikeja GRA, depending on traffic.
How do I find events in Ikeja?
Browse upcoming concerts, parties, conferences and church events in Ikeja on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
