Lagos Shopping Guide for Diaspora & Visitors (Detty December)

Every December, Lagos fills up with people coming home from London, Houston, Toronto and everywhere in between: weddings, owambe, concerts, beach days and family visits. Shopping is a big part of the trip, but if you've been away a while (or it's your first time), Lagos markets can be overwhelming. Here's a practical plan.

Plan your shopping early in the trip

December traffic in Lagos is legendary. Two hours to cross a few kilometres is normal close to Christmas. Do your market shopping in the first days of your trip, in the morning, on weekdays if you can. You'll also have time to get things sewn before you fly back.

Where to shop

• Tejuosho Market, Yaba: a modern multi-storey complex on the Mainland for lace and aso-ebi, fashion, shoes and bags, jewellery and home items. Easier to navigate than open markets, and reachable by the Red Line train to Yaba station.
• Balogun Market, Lagos Island: the biggest fabric market. Huge choice, huge crowds.
• Lekki Arts & Crafts Market: art, carvings, beads, fabrics and souvenirs. Great for gifts to take back.
• Computer Village, Ikeja: phones and accessories, if you need them.

More options in our guide to the best markets in Lagos.

What to buy to take back

• Fabric: lace, Ankara, aso-oke and adire. Lighter than ready-made clothes and much cheaper than abroad. See Nigerian fabrics explained.
• Ready-made native wear: kaftans, senator suits, bubu gowns and children's outfits.
• Gele and accessories: head ties, beads, statement earrings and clutch bags.
• Leather goods: handmade sandals, slippers and bags.
• Gifts: art, crafts and small items for friends and colleagues.

Getting outfits sewn before you fly

Lagos tailors are fast and skilled, but December is their busiest month. Book a tailor on day one or two, buy your fabric, and agree a delivery date at least two or three days before your flight so there's time for adjustments.

Paying in Lagos as a visitor

• Most traders want naira by bank transfer or POS. Foreign cards rarely work at market stalls.
• If you have a Nigerian account, keep your banking app working (and your OTP phone number active).
• If not, a relative can transfer for you, or change money through a legitimate channel; avoid strangers offering rates on the street.
• Confirm the trader has received a transfer before you leave with goods.

More detail: paying Lagos traders safely.

Bargaining without the "returnee price"

Traders can often tell when someone has been away, and prices may go up. Go with a local friend or relative if you can, ask a few shops before buying, and bargain politely. Our bargaining guide has the phrases that work.

Staying safe and comfortable

• Keep your phone and wallet in front of you, and avoid flashing expensive items in crowded areas.
• Carry water, wear comfortable shoes and dress for the heat.
• Use ride-hailing apps or a trusted driver, and agree pickup points in advance.
• Keep receipts and shop numbers in your phone in case you need to return.

Packing it all for the flight home

Check your airline's baggage allowance before shopping, not after. Fold fabric tightly in plastic bags, stuff shoes, and keep jewellery in hand luggage. If you buy more than you can carry, see shipping from Lagos to the UK, US and Canada. Check your destination's customs rules on food and goods before you pack.

Frequently asked questions

What should I buy in Lagos to take back abroad?

Popular choices are lace, Ankara and aso-oke fabric, ready-made native wear, beads and fashion jewellery, gele, handmade leather sandals and bags, art and crafts, and gifts for friends.

Can I use my foreign card in Lagos markets?

Most market traders want a naira bank transfer or local POS payment. Have a way to pay in naira, such as a Nigerian bank account, a relative who can transfer for you, or cash exchanged through a legitimate channel.

When is the best time to shop in Lagos in December?

Shop early in your trip and early in the day. Markets and roads get very busy closer to Christmas and New Year, and popular fabrics can sell out.