Lagos, Nigeria
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Lagos.
Beach area with modern development and gated communities. Lekki Phase 1 is relatively safe during the day, but night security is moderate and gets worse as you move east. Better for daytime visits than as a main base.
Lekki stretches along the peninsula east of Victoria Island with beaches, gated estates, and shopping malls. Young professionals, families, and expats live here because they want more space than VI offers. Lekki Phase 1 (closest to VI) is the most developed and safest part, with the Palms Shopping Mall, restaurants, and bars. The further east toward Ajah you go, the less developed and less secure it gets. Elegushi Beach is the most popular beach in Lagos, lined with restaurants and bars where you can have lunch or drinks. During the day, Lekki feels relatively safe in the gated communities and main commercial areas. Night safety drops significantly - street lighting is inconsistent and the peninsula can feel isolated after dark. Use Uber here, even for short distances. Visit beaches during daylight only, preferably with others.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
ModerateHarassment Risk
HighPublic Transport Safety
ModeratePickpocketing Risk
HighScam Risk
HighPolice Visibility
ModerateEmergency Services
ModerateEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
ModerateHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
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"Beaches are nice but only felt safe going during the day with others"
"Lekki Phase 1 near The Palms felt okay, but further out felt isolated"
"Used Uber for everything - wouldn't walk around at night"
"Good restaurant and bar scene but less secure than Victoria Island"
"Traffic on Lekki-Epe Expressway is terrible during rush hour"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
VI has the best security in Lagos with heavy embassy and corporate presence. It's expensive and westernized, but has the best infrastructure and dining options in the city.
Tech startup hub with authentic mainland energy and cheap food. Serious harassment issues, poor night safety, and extreme traffic make it unsuitable as a base. Daytime visits only from safer accommodations.
Safest mainland neighborhood with heavy police presence from government facilities. Quiet, residential, and near the airport with good restaurants at lower prices than the islands. Best mainland option on a budget.
Help other women stay safe in Lekki
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.