As one of the commercial districts in Lagos, Ikeja is part of the 20 local government areas in Lagos State. However, this area is divided into different regions on the mainland.
If you are visiting Ikeja for the first time, you might get confused while trying to navigate because Ikeja can be synonymous with other areas. When you tell someone you are going to Ikeja, the first thing that comes to their mind is, “Which part of Ikeja?”
We decided to curate a detailed guide of the most essential areas in Ikeja that you should know when visiting.
Underbridge-Ikeja
This notable landmark is situated in the heart of Ikeja, near one of the largest computer and mobile phone accessories hubs, called Computer Village, on Otigba Street. Known as Underbridge, it is a busy transportation hub where many roads and bus routes converge. It is a significant point for commuters and travellers in Lagos.
It is located near the intersection of Awolowo Way and Obafemi Awolowo Way, two major roads in Ikeja. This area is divided into the first bridge, close to Computer Village, and the second bridge, closer to the Lagos State Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
Underbridge-Ikeja has high pedestrian traffic. However, crossing roads here is easy due to the zebra lines and small pedestrian walkways under the bridge. Because this area is very busy, it is advisable to stay vigilant about personal belongings due to the risk of petty theft.
Alausa-Ikeja
This is a key administrative and commercial hub in Ikeja. It is home to the Lagos State Secretariat, the administrative headquarters of the state.
In this area, you will find the offices of the Lagos State Governor, various ministries, and other key government departments. The Lagos State House of Assembly, the legislative body where state laws are made, is also located in Alausa.
Ikeja City Mall, one of the largest shopping centres in Lagos, is located near the Lagos Secretariat. Also, recreational parks and gardens like Johnson Jakande Tinubu (JJT) Park and Ndubuisi Kanu Park can be found in Alausa.
Alausa is well-connected by major roads such as Obafemi Awolowo Way and Kudirat Abiola Way, and it links to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, facilitating easy access to other parts of Lagos.
Security in Alausa is tighter compared to other areas in Ikeja or Lagos as a whole, due to the presence of government offices.
Airport-Ikeja
This part of Ikeja is where the main airport serving Lagos is located. The Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) is approximately 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) northwest of Lagos city centre.
Airport-Ikeja is divided into two main areas: the Murtala Muhammed International Terminal and the Murtala Muhammed Domestic Terminal (MMA2). The International Terminal handles international flights, while the Domestic Terminal handles flights within Nigeria.
This area is accessible via the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway and Airport Road. These roads connect the airport to various parts of Lagos. The airport is the primary entry point for international visitors to Nigeria, serving as a key gateway for tourism and business travel.
Ikeja-Along
This area is primarily known for its role as a significant transportation hub. It is a popular bus stop and a busy area with many commercial buses (danfos) that pick up and drop off passengers, making it a crucial point for commuters.
It is situated along the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, one of the major roads in Lagos, and it is relatively close to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
The Lagos-Ibadan Railway line has a station close to Ikeja-Along, and you will find rail tracks along this axis. The Lagos State Red Line train station is also situated here, though it is not operational, as of June 2024.
The Ikeja-Along area has pedestrian bridges for safe crossing to support the high volume of commuters.
Ikeja GRA
This is the Government Reserved Area (GRA), known for its upscale residential and commercial buildings.
As a residential area, Ikeja GRA is known for its serene environment, characterised by relatively well-maintained streets, greenery, and upscale properties. It is home to many expatriates, high-ranking government officials, and business executives.
Ikeja GRA is located in the heart of Ikeja, bordered by major roads such as Obafemi Awolowo Way and Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way. It is close to the High Court of Lagos State (Headquarters) and the Lagos State Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
The area boasts well-paved roads and good connectivity to other parts of Lagos. Major roads such as Isaac John Street, Joel Ogunnaike Street, and Glover Road run through Ikeja GRA.
You will also find notable hotels such as Sheraton Lagos Hotel, Protea Hotel, and Radisson Blu Hotel around this area. There are also a plethora of high-end restaurants and bars offering a variety of cuisines and entertainment options.
Several top-notch Ivy League schools and reputable hospitals are in and around Ikeja GRA. The area benefits from enhanced security measures, including private security services and regular patrols, due to its upscale status.
PWD-Ikeja
PWD-Ikeja is located along the Agege Motor Road, also known as the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway. It is positioned between the Ikeja and Oshodi areas.
Similar to Ikeja-Along, PWD-Ikeja is notable for its transportation significance. The Lagos-Ibadan Railway line has a station at Ikeja PWD, making it a significant stop for passengers travelling along this major rail route. This enhances connectivity between Lagos and other cities.
This area is situated close to other key locations such as Ikeja GRA, Ikeja-Along, and the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
Allen Avenue
Allen Avenue in Ikeja serves as a central hub for commerce, finance, and social activities in Lagos. It is often regarded as a red light district due to the numerous hotels, clubs, and bars.
This area runs from Obafemi Awolowo Way in the south to Opebi Road in the north. Allen Avenue is lined with numerous businesses, including corporate offices, banks, shopping centres, and various retail outlets. You will also find the popular Alade shopping market in this area.
The road is well-paved and maintained, with good street lighting and proper signage. It experiences heavy traffic, especially during peak hours, due to its commercial importance.
Adeniyi Jones
Adeniyi Jones is another prominent area in Ikeja. It runs from Oba Akran Avenue in the south to the intersection with Obafemi Awolowo Way in the north, linking to several parts of Ikeja like Ogba and Agege.
Adeniyi Jones is known for its blend of commercial, industrial, and residential activities. It features a range of mid to high-end real estate options, including commercial buildings, office complexes, and residential properties.
The residential areas along and near Adeniyi Jones offer various housing options, from apartments to standalone houses, catering to different income levels.
You will also find financial institutions, stores, and hotels in this area. Additionally, there are various restaurants, bars, and cafes along Adeniyi Jones, providing options for dining and leisure activities.