Visiting Nigeria’s key city and former capital Lagos is a completely different experience, particularly when you are on a shopping expedition in the local markets. In fact, Nigerians in their local dialect often say ‘Ajanigo’, which apparently means that there are many things to see and buy in the city’s markets. This also seems to be wholly true whenever you visit the markets for shopping. The markets in Lagos are though peculiar in a way as markets abound here for different items. These are apart from the general markets. If you are looking for textile, there is a market devoted to this only. Whether you might be looking for computers, electronics, gadgets, home appliances, fruits or seafood, all these are available at different markets dedicated to each item.
Let us have a look at some of the best markets in Lagos. These include Yaba Market, Ijorah Olopa, Idumota Market, Ojah Market, Ketu-Mile 12 Food Market, Alaba International Market, Computer Village, and Balogun Market. If you are looking for an authentic shopping experience in Lagos, consider visiting these markets.
Balogun Market
Balogun Market is undoubtedly the largest market not only in Nigeria but entire West Africa. This sprawling market is spread across a maze of streets on the central Lagos Island. This is the best place in the city to shop for clothes and fabrics. In fact, the Balogun Market is considered to be Africa’s biggest market for apparel and clothing. Whether you might be looking for office wears, Ankara, laces, clothes, suitcases, jewelry, bags, different kinds of fabrics or shoes, all these are available here at great bargains. The market is a major trading hub in the country for retail as well as wholesale business. A large number of visitors from various parts of Nigeria and neighboring countries visit the Balogun Market every day. If you are on a shopping tour at the market remember to take someone along who is well acquainted with it and has bargaining skills.
Computer Village
The Computer Village, as the name is evident, is the best place in Lagos where computers, phones and related accessories are bought and sold. It is also the place where you can get your computers and phones repaired hiring services of some of the best skilled technicians in Nigeria. Here you can purchase computers and phones at affordable prices, but only after putting your bargaining skills to good use. However, when visiting this place you need to be cautious and beware of fraudsters, pickpockets and touts.
Alaba International Market
The Alaba International Market is the largest electronics market in Africa. Some of the biggest dealers in Nigeria dealing in electronics products are found here. Whatever type of electronic gadgets you might be looking for such as Decoders, Digital Satellite Dishes, DVD sets, Air Conditioners, Fans, Refrigerators, Generators, Flat Screen TVs and many more are available here. The market is open entire week, except on Sundays.
Ketu-Mile 12 Food Market
The Ketu-Mile 12 Food Market is the best place in Nigeria to shop for all types of food grains and food products. Various types of fresh vegetables and fruits are also available for purchase. This is the place where you can shop for beans, rice, guinea corn, maize Irish potatoes, yams, sweet and many more. All these products at this wholesale market can be purchased at highly affordable prices. You can even purchase local specialties that usually aren’t available anywhere else in the country.
Ojah Market
Ojah Market is situated on Lagos mainland in Badagry area nearby the border of Benin Republic. This beautiful mixed market located near the coast line is home to a variety of products. You can find all kinds of fashion accessories such as cosmetics, bags and shoes. The food market here is great to explore from where you can buy different kinds of seafood such as prawns, lobsters, shrimps and more. All the products are affordably priced here.
Idumota Market
The Idumota Market, popularly called Eko, is situated in the central Lagos Island. It is also among the biggest markets in the country. If you are looking for items such as bags, shoes, jewelries, interior décor, textile and more, the Idumota Market is the perfect place to visit. Those who want to avoid crowds should visit the market early to make their purchases. However, for people who love watching or want to get a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of local Nigerians, the market is the best to explore during any time of the day. The Idumota Market is also the perfect destination for movie buffs. If you are interested in African movies, this market is a great place to search for many latest movies.