For years, the mention of “Ajah” to a mainland Lagosian might have conjured images of a distant, almost frontier-like land, forever defined by its notorious traffic bottleneck. But to look at Ajah through that narrow lens today is to miss one of Lagos’s most dynamic and rapidly evolving stories. Ajah is no longer just the area you endure to get to Lekki; it has blossomed into a thriving, self-sufficient hub, a compelling destination in its own right.
Having shed its reputation as a mere transit point, Ajah has emerged as a popular choice for families, young professionals, and businesses seeking a blend of relative affordability, modern amenities, and community spirit. Initially, we wrote about list of streets in Ajah but let’s move beyond the bridge and dive into what makes Ajah a neighbourhood worth considering.
Where Exactly is Ajah in Lagos?
First, a little geography. Ajah is strategically located on the Lekki Peninsula, serving as the gateway between the more established parts of Lekki (like Lekki Phase 1) and the burgeoning new developments stretching towards Epe and the Lekki Free Trade Zone. Key areas within the broader Ajah umbrella include:
- Sangotedo: A rapidly developing area known for its new housing estates, shopping complexes, and a more planned community feel.
- Abraham Adesanya: Often considered the heart of modern Ajah, it’s a major roundabout surrounded by banks, restaurants, and businesses.
- Badore: A more residential and slightly more upscale area, home to the popular Novare Mall.
- Ajah Mainland: The area around the Ajah Roundabout itself, a bustling commercial centre with a traditional market and constant activity.
The Neighbourhood
The beauty of Ajah is its ability to cater to different tastes. You can find the vibrant, chaotic energy of a typical Lagos market right beside a quiet, gated community with manicured lawns.
For the Foodies: A Culinary Adventure
Ajah is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re craving local delicacies or international cuisine, your options are vast:
- Local Bites: The Ajah Market and countless roadside spots offer delicious, affordable meals like fresh seafood, suya, and amala. “White House” at the roundabout is a local legend for its peppered snail and isiewu (goat head).
- Casual Dining: You’ll find popular spots like Chicken Republic, Sweet Kiwi, and numerous “Mama Put” canteens for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Upscale Experiences: For a more refined dining experience, head to Novare Mall in Badore for options like Johnny Rockets or the restaurants within the mall. The area also boasts several high-end lounges and bars perfect for a weekend chill-out.
For the Shopaholics: From Markets to Malls
Your shopping needs are thoroughly covered in Ajah.
- Ajah Market: This is the go-to place for fresh produce, seafood, meat, and household items. Be prepared to haggle and immerse yourself in a true Lagos market experience.
- Novare Mall, Badore: This modern shopping mall is a game-changer for the area. It houses Shoprite, a cinema (Filmhouse), a food court, and a variety of retail stores from fashion to electronics.
- Sangotedo Market & Plaza: Sangotedo has its own bustling market and several modern shopping plazas popping up, offering convenience for everyday needs.
For Recreation and Relaxation
While Ajah isn’t known for public parks, it offers its own unique forms of leisure.
- Beach Life: This is a major draw. Elegushi Beach is just a stone’s throw away, offering a vibrant scene with music, food, and activities. For a quieter, more exclusive experience, resorts like La Campagne Tropicana are located further down the Lekki-Epe Expressway.
- Social Spots: The area is brimming with lounges, bars, and clubs. From the sophisticated ambience of clubs in Abraham Adesanya to the more local joints, the nightlife is vibrant.
- Cinema: The Filmhouse Cinema in Novare Mall provides a perfect escape for movie lovers.
Cost of living, Transportation and Housing
Cost of Living:
One of Ajah’s biggest selling points is its relative affordability compared to Ikoyi, Victoria Island, or even Lekki Phase 1. You can get significantly more space for your rent budget here. However, as development accelerates, prices are steadily rising, especially in premium areas like Badore and within the new estates of Sangotedo.
Transportation and The “Ajah Traffic”:
Let’s address the elephant in the room. Traffic, especially during rush hours at the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge and the Ajah Roundabout, can be a significant challenge. The ongoing road construction and expansion projects promise relief in the future, but for now, it’s a factor to plan for.
- Public Transport: Danfo buses and tricycles (Keke NAPEP) are the primary modes of transport within Ajah and to neighbouring areas.
- Ride-Hailing: Uber and Bolt operate extensively in Ajah.
- Pro Tip: Living close to your workplace or within a self-contained estate can dramatically improve your quality of life by reducing daily commute stress.
Housing Options:
The housing market is diverse. You can find everything from:
- Traditional compounds in the older parts of Ajah.
- Modern apartments in purpose-built blocks, especially in Sangotedo and Abraham Adesanya.
- Luxury flats and duplexes within gated estates with amenities like 24/7 power, water, and security.
Who is Ajah For?
Ajah is the perfect fit for:
- Young Professionals & Families looking for a vibrant community with growing amenities without the premium price tag of V.I.
- Business Owners who see the potential in a rapidly expanding consumer market.
- Anyone who values having easy access to beaches, good food, and modern shopping, all while being part of a community that is visibly on the rise.
Final Thoughts
Ajah is a neighbourhood in transition, wearing its growth on its sleeve. The construction sites and traffic are signs of a place hurtling towards a brighter, more organized future. It’s not without its challenges, but its energy, diversity, and undeniable potential make it one of the most exciting places to live in Lagos today. It’s more than just a bridge; it’s a destination.
So, if you’re looking for a slice of Lagos that offers both the thrill of the new and the warmth of community, take a closer look at Ajah. You might just find your perfect home.
Have you lived in or visited Ajah recently? Share your experiences and favourite spots in the comments below!
Top 10 Places to Live in Ajah
So, you’ve decided that the vibrant, expanding world of Ajah is for you. Excellent choice! But “Ajah” is an umbrella term for a collection of diverse communities, each with its own personality, advantages, and price points.
Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or an executive seeking luxury, there’s a corner of Ajah that fits your needs.
Here are the top 10 places to live in Ajah, Lagos.
1. Badore:
Best for: Families, Executives, and those seeking a premium, tranquil environment.
The Vibe: Polished, serene, and well-planned. Badore is often considered the most upscale part of Ajah. It feels more like Lekki Phase 1 than the bustling Ajah mainland, with wide roads, gated communities, and a generally more orderly atmosphere.
Why Live Here?
- Novare Mall: You have one of Lagos’s best shopping malls right on your doorstep, complete with Shoprite, a cinema, and numerous restaurants.
- Top-Tier Schools: Home to renowned institutions like Greensprings School and Corona School, making it a prime choice for families.
- Security & Serenity: Known for its relative peace, better security, and less chaotic traffic compared to the Ajah roundabout.
Consideration: This comes with a premium. Rents and property prices here are among the highest in the Ajah area.
2. Sangotedo:
Best for: Young Professionals, Middle-class Families, Entrepreneurs.
The Vibe: Dynamic, fast-growing, and aspirational. Sangotedo is the poster child for Ajah’s rapid development. It’s a landscape of new residential estates, modern shopping plazas, and a buzzing energy.
Why Live Here?
- Modern Infrastructure: Many new estates offer 24/7 power and water, modern architectural designs, and good security.
- Affordability (Relative): While prices are rising fast, you still get more value for your money compared to Badore or Lekki.
- Self-Contained Community: You have banks, supermarkets, pharmacies, and restaurants all within easy reach, reducing the need to commute.
Consideration: The rapid development means constant construction and occasional strain on existing infrastructure.
3. Abraham Adesanya:
Best for: Professionals, Couples, and those who value convenience above all.
The Vibe: Central, commercial, and always buzzing. Named after the major roundabout, this area is the central hub of Ajah. It’s where you’ll find a high concentration of banks, offices, restaurants, and shops.
Why Live Here?
- Ultimate Convenience: Everything you need is within a 5-minute drive. From groceries to fine dining, it’s all here.
- Excellent Connectivity: It’s the main transit point for buses heading to Lekki, V.I, and the mainland, as well as those going deeper into Ajah, Sangotedo, and Epe.
- Vibrant Social Scene: Home to numerous lounges, bars, and cafes.
Consideration: It can be noisy, and traffic around the roundabout is notoriously heavy during peak hours.
4. Lagos Business School (LBS) Environs:
Best for: Academics, Students, and those who appreciate a scholarly, serene atmosphere.
The Vibe: Intellectual, quiet, and secure. The area surrounding the prestigious Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) and Lagos Business School is meticulously planned and maintained.
Why Live Here?
- Serene Environment: The presence of the university campus lends a calm, park-like feeling to the area.
- High Security: This is one of the most secure locations in all of Ajah.
- Proximity to Amenities: While quiet, it’s just a short drive from the Abraham Adesanya roundabout and its offerings.
Consideration: Rental options can be limited and are often on the higher end due to the exclusive environment.
5. Ajah-Langbasa Road:
Best for: Nature Lovers, Families seeking space, and those wanting a unique setting.
The Vibe: Suburban, scenic, and community-focused. This road branches off from the main expressway and runs along the waterfront, offering a different pace of life.
Why Live Here?
- Beautiful Views: Many properties here boast stunning views of the Lagos Lagoon.
- More Space: You are more likely to find standalone houses and compounds with gardens here than in the more densely populated areas.
- Tight-Knit Communities: Areas like Ikate Elegushi foster a strong sense of community.
Consideration: Commuting to the expressway can add time to your journey, and public transport is less frequent.
6. Addo Road:
Best for: Established Families, and those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
The Vibe: Residential, family-oriented, and well-connected. Addo Road is a long, major road that hosts several gated estates, good schools, and shopping centers.
Why Live Here?
- Reputable Schools: Home to schools like The Meadow Hall School and Grange School (Lekki Campus), making the school run incredibly easy.
- Quality Housing: Features a mix of good-quality apartment blocks and secure estates.
- Strategic Location: It provides a good balance—it’s close enough to the action of Abraham Adesanya but far enough to be peaceful.
Consideration: Traffic on Addo Road itself can build up during school drop-off and pick-up times.
7. Freedom Way (Lekki Phase 2):
Best for: Those who want the Lekki name with Ajah accessibility.
The Vibe: Established, residential, and leafy. While technically the beginning of Lekki Phase 2, Freedom Way is so close to the Ajah border that it’s a key consideration. It’s more established than Sangotedo but offers a similar community feel.
Why Live Here?
- Mature Infrastructure: The roads and drainage are generally better than in newer parts of Ajah.
- Great Amenities: Has its own market (Ologolo), supermarkets, and good road networks.
- Quick Access: You can easily jump onto the expressway to head to V.I or deeper into Ajah.
Consideration: Rents can be higher than in Sangotedo, reflecting its more established status.
8. Okun Ajah:
Best for: Budget-conscious individuals, and those who love the fishing community vibe.
The Vibe: Authentic, bustling, and no-frills. Okun Ajah is a traditional coastal community with a vibrant fishing port. It offers a raw, authentic Lagos experience.
Why Live Here?
- Affordability: This is one of the most budget-friendly areas in Ajah.
- Fresh Seafood: Direct access to the freshest catch of the day right from the fishermen.
- Cultural Experience: Living here provides a deep dive into the local culture and way of life.
Consideration: Infrastructure is basic, and flooding can be an issue during the rainy season. It’s less suited for those accustomed to modern amenities.
9. Ilaje:
Best for: Young couples, small families, and those looking for a middle ground.
The Vibe: Traditional-meets-modern, lively, and central. Ilaje is close to the Ajah roundabout but retains a strong local community identity. It’s a mix of old compounds and new developments.
Why Live Here?
- Convenience: Walking distance to the Ajah Market and the roundabout.
- Affordable Options: More rental opportunities at various price points than in the more premium areas.
- Authenticity: You get the convenience of Ajah with the authentic feel of a Lagos neighbourhood.
Consideration: Can be noisy and crowded, and parking is often a challenge.
10. Ajah Mainland (Around the Roundabout):
Best for: Single professionals, business owners, and extreme extroverts.
The Vibe: The heart of the action, 24/7 energy, purely urban. This is for those who want to be at the very center of everything.
Why Live Here?
- Zero Commute to Amenities: Your office, bank, restaurant, and supermarket are all downstairs.
- Unbeatable Access to Transport: The main bus stop is your front yard.
- The Pulse of Ajah: You are living in the epicenter of Ajah’s transformation.
Consideration: Noise, traffic, and a lack of green space are significant trade-offs. It is the opposite of a serene retreat.
