Safest Places in Lagos to Live For Locals and Tourists

Is Lagos Safe?

Looking for the safest place to live in Lagos? Whether you’re a local or a tourist, safety is a top priority—nobody wants to live in a crime thriller! Lagos may be famous for its energy and hustle, but it’s also home to some peaceful and secure neighbourhoods where you can relax without constantly checking over your shoulder.

Whether you’re a local looking for a peaceful neighbourhood or a tourist visiting Lagos for the first time, this article will take you through some of the safest areas. We’ll also touch on places to avoid and offer tips on how to stay safe while enjoying the city.

Safest Places to Live in Lagos

1. Ikoyi

Ikoyi is one of Lagos’ most prestigious and secure neighbourhoods, offering high safety for both residents and visitors. With luxury estates, private security, and a low crime rate, it’s a favourite among diplomats, expatriates, and top business executives.

Ikoyi’s gated estates are known for their 24/7 security surveillance, and its proximity to embassies and high-end hotels adds an extra layer of safety. If you’re looking for a serene and upscale environment, Ikoyi is the perfect choice.

For tourists, Ikoyi offers access to fine dining, parks, and the iconic Lagos Marina, making it a great spot to enjoy the city safely.

2. Banana Island 

Banana Island is a billionaire’s playground and one of the safest, most exclusive areas in Lagos. It is located off the coast of Ikoyi, this artificial island is home to some of Nigeria’s wealthiest individuals and multinational corporations. Security in Banana Island is extremely tight, with private security firms working hand in hand with local authorities to ensure peace.

Residents of Banana Island can enjoy luxurious living in high-end apartments and mansions. For tourists, visiting Banana Island might not be on the itinerary unless you’re attending a private event or staying in one of the upscale accommodations.

3. Victoria Island 

Victoria Island (VI) is one of the safest and most dynamic areas in Lagos, especially for both residents and tourists. It is known for its business district, luxury apartments, and vibrant nightlife, VI offers a mix of modernity and security. The area is home to many banks, tech companies, and global brands, ensuring a strong security presence.

For tourists, Victoria Island is perfect for enjoying Lagos’ coastlines, shopping malls, restaurants, and landmarks like Beaches in Victoria Island. Whether day or night, the area remains one of the safest for fun.

4. Lekki

Lekki, particularly Lekki Phase 1, is one of Lagos’ fastest-growing and safest neighbourhoods. The area is popular with young professionals, families, and expatriates due to its gated estates, modern amenities, and increasing security infrastructure. Lekki is also known for its tourist attractions, such as the Lekki Conservation Centre (a famous Tourist site in Lagos), and its proximity to numerous beaches.

Safety is a priority here, with estates employing private security personnel, and the local police patrolling major roads. For locals, Lekki offers a good mix of affordable luxury and security, while tourists can enjoy a peaceful stay in this relatively crime-free part of Lagos.

5. Ikeja GRA

The Government Reserved Area (GRA) in Ikeja, the capital of Lagos State, is one of the safest and most peaceful areas on the mainland. Ikeja GRA is a prestigious neighbourhood with well-maintained streets, secure estates, and the presence of government buildings, which contributes to the area’s safety.

Ikeja GRA is home to various expatriates, top government officials, and business elites. For tourists, the area is perfect for a quiet stay, and it’s close to the international airport. Popular landmarks like Ikeja City Mall and high-end restaurants make this a great area for both locals and tourists looking for a secure yet convenient location.

6. Maryland

Maryland is another top pick when it comes to safety in Lagos. It is located on the mainland (Ikeja local government), Maryland offers a quiet and secure environment for residents. The neighbourhood is known for its clean streets, gated communities, and low crime rate.

For tourists, Maryland offers easy access to major roads and is close to some shopping malls (Purple Maryland) and local markets. Its peaceful nature makes it a popular residential choice for families and professionals seeking security.

7. Magodo 

Magodo, located in the northern part of Lagos mainland, is one of the safest suburban neighbourhoods in Lagos. Magodo GRA is particularly known for its well-structured estates, which are heavily guarded by private security. The area is a favourite for middle- to upper-class families looking for a calm and secure residential setting.

For tourists, Magodo might not offer much in terms of attractions, but it is a safe and peaceful area if you’re looking for accommodation close to Lagos mainland’s key hubs.

8. Festac Town

Festac Town is a well-organized residential neighbourhood located in Amuwo-Odofin on the Lagos mainland. Originally built to host the participants of the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC) in 1977, the area is now one of the safest places to live for middle-class families.

Festac Town is relatively quiet compared to more commercial areas of Lagos and offers good security in its gated estates. For tourists, the area is close to Badagry, a historic town worth visiting for its museums and beaches.

9. Ibeju Lekki

Ibeju Lekki is one of the fast-developing areas in Lagos, and it’s becoming a hotspot for real estate investment. While the area is still growing, it’s considered one of the safest locations for land banking due to the significant presence of planned residential estates and a growing expatriate community.

For tourists, Ibeju Lekki provides easy access to Lekki’s many attractions, including the popular Eleko Beach. With its peaceful atmosphere, it’s a great option for anyone looking to invest or see Lagos’ future potential.

10. Ilupeju – Home to Lagos’ Indian Community

Ilupeju is an interesting addition to our list of safe places in Lagos. It is located within the Mushin local government area, Ilupeju stands out for its significant Indian population, making it a cultural melting pot. The area is known for being quiet, secure, and family-friendly, thanks to its mix of residential estates and commercial activities.

The large Indian community adds a unique flavour to the neighbourhood, with several Indian restaurants, cultural events, and businesses. Despite its proximity to Mushin, which is often regarded as a less safe part of Lagos, Ilupeju maintains a good security presence and is considered safe for both locals and expatriates.

For tourists who want to experience Lagos’ multicultural side, Ilupeju offers a glimpse of the various communities that call the city home.

11. Badagry

Badagry, located on the outskirts of Lagos, is a quiet and historically rich area. It is known for its role in the transatlantic slave trade, Badagry is a safe destination for tourists looking to see Nigeria’s past. The area is peaceful, and local authorities maintain a secure environment around its landmarks like the Badagry Heritage Museum.

12. Eko Atlantic – The Future of Lagos

Eko Atlantic is a new development on reclaimed land from the Atlantic Ocean. Although it’s still under construction, Eko Atlantic promises to be one of the safest areas in Lagos due to its modern infrastructure and advanced security measures.

A Word of Caution For Tourist: Areas to Avoid

While Lagos has many safe neighbourhoods, there are some areas where caution is advised. Neighbourhoods like some parts of Ajegunle, Ijora and Oshodi are known for higher crime rates and more chaotic environments. It’s best to avoid these areas unless accompanied by a local guide or trusted contact.

For more details, you can check out my detailed article on dangerous places to live in Lagos, where I provide insights into the areas that require extra caution.

Tips for Staying Safe in Lagos

1. Stay in Gated Estates or Secure Hotels: Whether you’re a local or a tourist, it’s always best to choose accommodation in secure estates or trusted hotels.
2. Be Cautious at Night: While areas like Ikoyi and Victoria Island are relatively safe, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places.
3. Use Registered Ride Services: Opt for services like Uber or Bolt rather than hopping on local buses (danfo) to unfamiliar locations.
4. Keep a Low Profile: Avoid flaunting valuables in public, as this can make you a target for petty theft.

Conclusion

Lagos is a dynamic city with plenty to offer, and there are many safe neighbourhoods where both locals and tourists can feel secure. Ikoyi, Banana Island, Victoria Island, and Lekki are some of the best places to live or visit, while Festac Town, Ikeja GRA, and Magodo offer great options for those looking for a peaceful environment on the mainland.

Whether you’re a tourist planning your next trip or a local searching for a secure place to live, Lagos has a spot for you. For a more in-depth look at areas to avoid, don’t forget to check out my article on dangerous places in Lagos. Stay safe and enjoy all that Lagos has to offer.