What can you see in Lekki Lagos, Nigeria with short stays offers? The African Artists’ Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting young artists, runs a gallery showcasing their contemporary works. The gallery has a permanent collection and presents diverse temporary exhibits; it also hosts workshops and special events. Art enthusiasts visiting Lagos might also like to visit Nimbus Art Gallery in the upscale Ikoyi neighborhood. It’s a live music venue and outdoor restaurant as well as a gallery specializing in modern art. The Nigerian National Museum, at Onikan in Lagos Island, offers a fascinating look at traditional Nigerian life over the centuries. Exhibits include tribal costumes, sculptures, art works, coins and pottery from the diverse regions and cultures of Nigeria. The major highlight of the museum’s collection is the Jemaa Head, a terracotta sculpture attributed to the Nok culture circa 900 to 200 B.C. Guided tours of the museum are available.
An architectural masterpiece and cultural landmark, the edifice is one of the few properties of the country that has stood the test of time. Being home to everything art, the National Theatre provides an avenue for you to learn a lot more about art while having fun in its lush environment. Constructed in 1976 by the military regime of General Yakubu Gowon and completely by General Olusegun Obasanjo, the National Theatre has continued to house ancient art, while progressively inviting modern works by new artists. One major dynamics of the theatre is its fascinating interior and exterior design.
Festac town was built for participants of the festival of arts and culture in 1977. The town has a rich cultural heritage and makes for a good place to visit for people looking to explore Lagos. Having being renovated and transformed by Fela’s famous children, The New Afrika Shrine is an entertainment sanctuary, a place to catch real fun for fun seekers. You can visit the shrine on Thursday night for a free show with Femi Kuti. Similarly, on the last Saturdays of the month, Seun Kuti, the last of the Fela’s boys does his thing (Afrobeats Sessions with Seun Kuti) on stage. At each jam session, you’ll enjoy getting educated about African politics. Plus it’s a god way to dance, socialize, and listen to good music. Read a few extra info at Flats in Lekki.
There’s no understanding West Africa without learning about the tragic history of the slave trade and the havoc colonial slavers wrecked across the region. A trip to the historic town of Badagry is sure to leave you pensive as you explore relics of this unfortunate chapter of Nigerian (and world) history at the Badagry Black Heritage Museum. Badagry is also a charming town in its own right, and is near some decent beaches, so it makes for another worthwhile daytrip from Lagos. Again, to get there it’s likely best to organize a private driver, though there is at least one company offering tours to locals (click here to check them out).