Lekki Arts and Crafts Market: Take Nigeria Home With You
Lagos is known for its energy, coastline and nightlife, but the city also offers memorable opportunities to experience Nigeria’s artistic heritage. One of the best places to begin is the Lekki Arts and Crafts Market, also known as the Oba Elegushi International Art Market.
Located off the Lekki–Epe Expressway, this colourful market brings together art, culture and craftsmanship from different parts of Nigeria. Visitors can meet local artisans, discover the stories behind their work and purchase meaningful pieces that preserve memories of their time in Lagos.
A Cultural Treasure in the Heart of Lekki
Walking through the Lekki Arts and Crafts Market feels like entering a living gallery. Its stalls are filled with carefully made items representing Nigeria’s diverse cultures, traditions and creative talent.
Rather than offering mass-produced souvenirs, the market gives visitors the opportunity to find distinctive pieces shaped by human hands and cultural knowledge. The experience is lively, personal and distinctly Nigerian.
You may find:
- Hand-carved wooden sculptures and masks
- Colourful paintings and framed artworks
- Beaded necklaces, bracelets and decorative accessories
- Ankara, adire and other Nigerian textiles
- Woven baskets and raffia products
- Leather bags, sandals and household accessories
- Traditional furniture and ornamental pieces
- Small keepsakes suitable for gifts
The variety means that you can leave with anything from an affordable memento to a major artwork for your home or office.
Meet the People Behind the Art
One of the most rewarding parts of visiting the Lekki Arts and Crafts Market is interacting with the traders and artisans.
Many sellers understand the origins, materials and cultural meanings of the pieces they display. A simple conversation can reveal how an item was made, what inspired its design or which Nigerian tradition it represents.
This personal connection makes each purchase more meaningful. You are not merely buying an object; you are taking home a story and directly supporting the people who help preserve Nigeria’s creative traditions.
What Makes the Market Worth Visiting?
The Lekki Arts and Crafts Market offers more than shopping. It is an immersive Lagos cultural experience where visitors can appreciate the country’s creativity at close range.
Authentic Nigerian craftsmanship
The market showcases pieces made from wood, fabric, beads, leather, metal and other materials. Many of the designs combine traditional influences with contemporary artistic expression.
Memorable Nigerian souvenirs
A handcrafted sculpture, textile, painting or piece of jewellery can hold far more meaning than a conventional souvenir. It becomes a lasting reminder of the colours, people and experiences that shaped your visit.
Opportunities to support local artisans
Purchasing directly from traders and craftspeople helps sustain livelihoods and encourages traditional skills to continue across generations.
An enjoyable local experience
Even if you do not intend to make a large purchase, browsing the stalls, speaking with vendors and photographing the displays—with permission—can be an enjoyable addition to your Lagos itinerary.
Tips for Visiting the Lekki Arts and Crafts Market
A little preparation can make your visit more comfortable and rewarding.
Visit earlier in the day
Morning visits generally offer cooler weather and a more relaxed opportunity to explore before the market becomes busier. Current online listings commonly show daily opening hours of approximately 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., but it is sensible to confirm before travelling. View the current market listing and directions.
Wear comfortable clothing
The market is best explored on foot. Choose comfortable shoes and light clothing suited to Lagos weather.
Compare before purchasing
Walk through several stalls before making your final decision. Similar categories of products may differ considerably in craftsmanship, size, materials and price.
Negotiate respectfully
Price negotiation is a familiar part of the experience, but it should remain friendly and respectful. Remember that handmade pieces often require considerable time and skill to produce.
Ask before taking photographs
The displays are highly photogenic, but always obtain permission before photographing an artisan, trader or individual stall.
Bring more than one payment option
Bank transfers are widely used in Lagos, while some purchases may still be easier with cash. Having both options can make transactions more convenient.
Think about transportation
If you purchase a large sculpture, framed painting or piece of furniture, discuss protective packaging and delivery arrangements before completing the transaction.
Choosing a Meaningful Piece
With so many items available, deciding what to buy can be part of the adventure. Instead of selecting the first attractive object you see, consider what you would like the piece to represent.
A small carving may remind you of your first trip to Lagos. An adire textile could become a striking addition to your wardrobe or home. A painting might capture the movement, colour and character of the city in a way photographs cannot.
Look closely at the finishing, ask about the materials and allow the artisan to explain the work. The story behind a piece can be just as valuable as the piece itself.
Add the Market to Your Lagos Itinerary
The market’s Lekki location makes it a practical addition to a day spent exploring the peninsula. Depending on your interests and schedule, you can combine the visit with an art gallery, restaurant, beach or another nearby Lagos attraction.
Allow enough time to browse without rushing. The real value of the experience often lies in discovering unexpected pieces and having conversations you could never plan in advance.
The market is located on Oba Elegushi Street, off the Lekki–Epe Expressway, and is accessible from Lekki Phase 1, Ikoyi and Victoria Island. It has also attracted international attention as a rewarding destination for visitors seeking Nigerian art, fabrics, beads and carvings. Read this Lagos travel feature.
Stay Close to the Best of Lagos with LIV
Exploring Lagos is easier when you have a comfortable and well-located home to return to.
LIV connects guests with verified serviced apartments in Lekki Phase 1, Ikoyi and Victoria Island, placing business travellers, tourists and returning Nigerians within convenient reach of many of the city’s leading attractions.
Book a verified Lagos serviced apartment instantly or tell LIV what you need for personalised assistance.
Let LIV find you a home.
