1. Lekki Arts and Craft Market – Elegushi Beach Road, Lekki

Popularly known as the Jakande Art Market, this creative hub is a goldmine for handmade arts, crafts, paintings, beadwork, cowry jewelry, and Afrocentric home decor. You can buy in bulk at relatively lower prices compared to retail shops. It’s perfect for resellers, decorators, or curators. Best visited between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekdays for less crowd and direct access to artisans. Some stalls close early on Sundays. Always negotiate politely, prices often drop when buying in quantity. The market is dusty and rough around the edges, so wear comfortable shoes and go with cash, as POS and transfers may not be reliable. You might even meet artists in action, sculpting or painting on the spot.

2. Balogun Market – Lagos Island, Near CMS Bus Stop

This is Lagos’ largest open air market, stretching across several streets from Idumota to Breadfruit Street. It’s a mega haven for fabrics (Ankara, lace, velvet), fashion accessories, corporate wear, and ready made clothes. Bulk buying is encouraged, and prices here are cheaper than mainland boutiques. Come as early as 7 a.m. on weekdays to beat the crowd and get the freshest deals. It is congested and busy, so dress light, avoid flashy items, and hold your bag tightly. Traders are fast talkers and smart bargainers, so be mentally prepared. It is also one of the few markets that sell imported designer dupes, wedding souvenirs, and fashion pieces at shocking prices.

3. Tejuosho Market – Tejuosho Road, Yaba

The new ultra-modern Tejuosho Complex is clean, organized, and offers cheaper electronics, undergarments, affordable skincare, thrift wear, perfumes, baby essentials, and hair products. It’s perfect for small-scale resellers or parents on a budget. Visit between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for better parking and less crowd. You will find everything from bras at wholesale prices to original body lotions 30% cheaper than malls. Prices drop even more when buying 3 or more. Some stores allow POS, but many prefer cash. It’s a market where middle-class Lagosians feel comfortable shopping without going all the way to the Island or crowded markets.

4. Alaba International Market – Ojo, Lagos-Badagry Expressway

This is Nigeria’s biggest electronics and appliance market. Think TVs, solar panels, speakers, generators, security gadgets, phone parts, ACs and used electronics. Traders import directly, so prices are significantly lower than tech stores in town. It’s a sprawling maze of warehouses, be sure to ask for referrals or go with someone who knows the area. Visit on weekdays by 9 a.m and expect intense bargaining. It’s advisable to test run all electronics and keep receipts. Beware of counterfeit products; stick to trusted lines and demand warranties when possible. Alaba is also a hub for music/video CD duplication, still serving Nigeria’s entertainment economy.

5. Oyingbo Market – Oyingbo Road, Mainland Lagos

If you’re a caterer, food vendor, or large household shopper, Oyingbo Market is the place for affordable, bulk foodstuff: rice, beans, yam, vegetables, spices, dry pepper, garri, onions, etc. Prices are lower than in supermarkets or corner shops. You can easily stock your pantry for weeks at half the cost. It opens from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m but food vendors often arrive earlier. Wear boots or non-slip shoes, it gets muddy. Most traders speak Yoruba and Igbo, but are friendly once they know you are a serious buyer. Bulk buyers often form informal cooperatives to get wholesale rates on things like tomatoes and peppers.

6. Aswani Market – Isolo, off Oshodi-Apapa Expressway

Tuesdays only! Aswani Market comes alive with super cheap second-hand clothing, shoes, school bags, curtains, bed sheets, and sometimes electronics. You will find bales of thrift items (okrika) at giveaway prices. Resellers, stylists, and hustlers love Aswani. Come by 6:30 a.m. for “first grade” items before they get picked. Bring a big sack bag or travel bag and expect to haggle. There are no POS options, so cash is king. The earlier, the better, by noon, the good stuff is gone. Aswani is noisy, crowded, and competitive, but it’s where Lagos fashionistas go when they want to slay on a budget.

7. Mile 12 Market – Ikorodu Road, Lagos

This is Lagos’ largest foodstuff market, and the best for tomatoes, peppers, onions, plantains, grains, vegetables, and fruits, especially in bulk. Major food vendors and even hotels buy here. It operates every day from 4 a.m. till around 6 p.m., but the best prices are secured in the early morning when trucks arrive. Expect some chaos and smell, it’s not for the faint hearted. Bring a wheelbarrow pusher (locally called alábàru) to help carry your goods. Always check for ripeness or rot before paying. Prices fluctuate with seasons, but bulk buyers always get discounts. Don’t wear white.

8. Computer Village – Otigba Street, Ikeja

This is Nigeria’s go to for all things tech—phones, laptops, accessories, gadgets, repairs, and more. Prices are lower than official outlets, and you can get UK-used (London-used) items in great condition. It’s busiest from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. Stick to trusted shops and avoid roadside traders unless you’re experienced. There’s heavy police and tech surveillance now due to scams. Ideal for tech resellers, students, and startup business people looking for gadgets on a budget. Ask for a warranty or test items well before leaving. You will also find cheaper data cables, chargers, smartwatches, power banks, etc.

9. Idumota Market – Lagos Island (Near Carter Bridge)

A spiritual and traditional shopper’s paradise. Idumota is renowned for religious materials, fabrics, CDs, DVDs, books, party souvenirs, and plastic items. It’s also the best place to buy in bulk for traditional Yoruba weddings and events, from aso-ebi to customized souvenirs. Visit from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., preferably with a guide. It’s easy to get lost among the towering shops and tight walkways. Beware of pickpockets. You will also find a wide range of Yoruba spiritual items like incense, herbs, beads, candles, and more, for those who practice African Traditional Religions or cultural performances.

10. Eko Market (Marina Market) – Behind Tinubu Square, Lagos Island

This is a jack-of-all-trades market. It offers textiles, foodstuff, office supplies, wholesale stationeries, and beauty products. It’s a mix of old-school shops and emerging retail stalls. Small business owners often get supply here to resell in the mainland or suburbs. Best to visit between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m., as logistics gets tricky later. The market is dense but less chaotic than Balogun. You will see goods stacked high in stores and on pushcarts. The beauty products and cosmetics sections, in particular, have unbeatable prices. It’s also a good place to print branded materials like wedding fans or corporate notebooks in bulk.