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By Ndem Nkem
Lagos’ fascinating capital, and the administrative capital of Lagos state, Ikeja is historic yet modish, bureaucratic yet malleable, and multicultural to its roots. It has all the advantages of a big city: rich culture, lively nightlife, international restaurants and good transport- although quite rowdy with a lot of road traffic. Wherever else you go in Lagos, allow at least a little time for Ikeja, undoubtedly a thriving, cosmopolitan metropolis, with top-flight architecture, and is eternally a trendy spot for weekend getaways and holidays. It is a center of Lagosian culture that you cannot afford to neglect.
TOP 3 SITES
Kalakuta Republic Museum
This fascinating museum is the former house and revolutionary headquarters of music Legend, Fela Kuti. It still features most of his property in its original form, from Fela’s bedroom to his underwear.
Computer village
Also popularly known as Otigba, Computer village which was created in 1997 is a large market for computer sales and repair services, as well as various types of office equipment and electronic devices.
Ikeja City Mall
One of the largest malls in Lagos State and certainly the Largest in Ikeja, Ikeja City Mall attracts a lot of visitors, both locals and tourists. Aside from shops, hair salons and eateries, it also has a cinema.
LODGING
Lodging in Ikeja is cheap compared to Victoria Island and Ikoyi, with a touch of charm and elegance. Hotel accommodation includes luxury hotels, star-rated hotels, boutique hotels, motels/inns and apartments for rent. Hotels can be booked online before you arrive at very reasonable prices via Jovago.com.
DINNING
Ikeja can hold its own with any intercontinental city when it comes to eating out, and whatever your taste, price range or preferred type of cuisine there is almost always for you. As for where to eat, the distinction between the city’s bukkas, fast food joints/eateries, café-bars and restaurants is quite clear, and there are number of great places around the city. For visitors who enjoy drinking, many of the more distinctive bars are handily located in the G.R.A area. Some of the favourites include Red lounge and Pool terrace Bar.
SHOPPING
Ikeja is a city of contrasts with enormous diversity when it comes to places of interest and where to shop. The city has a supreme selection of small, independent shops, a marvelous range of open-air markets as well as covered shopping “streets” and a number of charming galleries. Alade market located on Allen avenue Ikeja is known to be one of the most expensive markets in the city. Shops and stores are open from as early as 8am to 6pm or 7pm Monday through Saturday. Some tourist-oriented shops open on Sundays as well.
FUN FACTS
“IKEJA” is an abbreviation meaning Ikorodu and Epe Joint Administration. It was coined by colonial administrators for ease of administration. It is also said to be fromIkehdia a Benin word meaning Watch Station (military).
Ndem Nkem is Travel/Tech writer for Jovago.com
