Lagos Markets
Okrika in Lagos: Where to Buy Thrift Clothes Cheaply
Where to buy okrika (second-hand / thrift clothes) in Lagos: Yaba, Katangowa, Ikeja Under Bridge and more. How okrika bales work, how to pick quality and how to wash thrift clothes.
Okrika is what Lagosians call second-hand clothes, shoes and bags. For students, young professionals and resellers, okrika is a way to get quality, sometimes designer, pieces for a fraction of the price of new. Here's where to find it in Lagos and how to shop smart.
How okrika works
Second-hand clothes are imported in compressed bales. Traders open the bales and sort items by quality:
- First grade: best condition, almost new. Highest price.
- Second grade: good, with minor signs of wear.
- Lower grades: cheaper, often with visible wear or small defects.
The phrase "bend down select" comes from piles of clothes on the ground that buyers sort through themselves.
Where to buy okrika in Lagos
Yaba
Yaba has long been associated with affordable thrift clothing, and it's easy to combine with new-clothes shopping at Tejuosho and the Yaba market area.
Katangowa (Abule Egba)
One of the best-known okrika markets in Lagos, popular with resellers buying in quantity. Expect big crowds and serious bargaining.
Ikeja Under Bridge
A popular spot for thrift clothes and shoes, convenient if you're around Ikeja.
Other markets
Many large markets, including Oshodi and Balogun, have sections or traders selling okrika. Online thrift vendors on Instagram and WhatsApp also curate pieces, usually at higher prices.
How to pick good okrika
- Check seams and zips: zips should run smoothly; seams shouldn't be pulling.
- Look for stains in daylight, especially around collars and underarms.
- Check the fabric: pilling and fading are signs of heavy use.
- Try it on if possible; sizes vary by country of origin.
- Be early when a new bale opens; the best pieces go first.
Buying okrika for resale
- Decide whether to buy a full bale (cheaper per piece, but mixed quality) or select individual pieces.
- Ask the trader what grade the bale is and whether you can see it opened.
- Wash, iron and photograph pieces well before selling. Presentation sells thrift.
How to wash okrika before wearing
- Soak in hot water with detergent (check the fabric can take heat).
- Add an antiseptic if suitable for the fabric.
- Wash thoroughly and rinse well.
- Dry in direct sunlight, then iron.
Prefer new clothes?
See the best markets to buy clothes in Lagos, or plan a trip to Tejuosho Market for new fashion, shoes and bags under one roof.
Frequently asked questions
What is okrika?
Okrika is the Nigerian name for second-hand (thrift) clothes, shoes and bags, mostly imported in bales and sold in markets across Lagos.
Where is the biggest okrika market in Lagos?
Katangowa in Abule Egba and the Yaba market area are among the best-known places for okrika in Lagos. Ikeja Under Bridge is also popular.
What is first grade okrika?
"First grade" refers to the best-condition items from a bale, nearly new with no visible defects. They cost more than lower grades.
How do I wash okrika before wearing?
Wash all thrift clothes before wearing: soak in hot water with detergent (and an antiseptic if the fabric allows), wash thoroughly, dry in the sun and iron.
