Ikeja: The Heartbeat of Lagos

• HelloBawo ni
  [bah-woh nee]
• GoodbyeOdabo
  [oh-dah-boh]
• YesBe
  [beh]
• NoBee
  [bee]
• Please/You're welcomeAbeg
  [ah-beg]
• Thank youEse
  [eh-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryE ma binu
  [eh mah bee-noo]
• How are you?Bawo ni
  [bah-woh nee]
• Fine. And you?Dada. Nibo la wa?
  [dah-dah. nee-boh lah wah?]
• Do you speak English?Sọ Yoruba?
  [shaw yoh-roo-bah?]
• I don't understandEmi ko mọ
  [eh-mee koh moh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMofi wo iwe menyu, jọ
  [moh-fee woh ee-weh meh-nyoo, joh]
• I don't eat meatEmi ko je eja
  [eh-mee koh jeh eh-jah]
• Cheers!Eku ile
  [eh-koo ee-leh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMofi si ile, jọ
  [moh-fee shee ee-leh, joh]

• Help!Ejo
  [eh-joh]
• Go away!Lo si kuro!
  [loh see koo-roh]
• Call the Police!Wole si olopa!
  [woh-leh see oh-loh-pah]
• Call a doctor!Wole si doctor!
  [woh-leh see dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostMo ti lo
  [moh tee loh]
• I'm illMo ti gbe
  [moh tee g-beh]

• I'd like to buy...Mofi ra...
  [moh-fee rah]
• I'm just lookingMo nwo eleyi
  [moh noh eh-leh-yee]
• How much is it?Eyi o dupe?
  [eh-yee oh doo-peh]
• That's too expensiveO dun bi owo
  [oh doon bee oh-woh]
• Can you lower the price?Se le gba iku?
  [sheh leh g-bah ee-koo]

• What time is it?Kini oruko igbati?
  [kee-nee oh-roo-koh eeg-bah-tee]
• It's one o'clockOkan ti wulo
  [oh-kahn tee woo-loh]
• Half past (10)Aadota (10)
  [ah-ah-doh-tah (10)]
• MorningAaro
  [ah-ah-roh]
• AfternoonOwuro
  [oh-woo-roh]
• EveningAle
  [ah-leh]
• YesterdayOjo kewa
  [oh-joh keh-wah]
• TodayOjo naa
  [oh-joh nah]
• TomorrowOla
  [oh-lah]
• 1Okan
  [oh-kahn]
• 2Meji
  [meh-jee]
• 3Meta
  [meh-tah]
• 4Merin
  [meh-reen]
• 5Marun
  [mah-roon]
• 6Mefa
  [meh-fah]
• 7Meje
  [meh-jeh]
• 8Merindinlogun
  [meh-reen-deen-loh-goon]
• 9Mesan
  [meh-shahn]
• 10Mewa
  [meh-wah]

• Where's a/the...?Nibo ni...?
  [nee-boh nee]
• What's the address?Kini adirẹsi?
  [kee-nee ah-dee-reh-see]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Se le so mi (si iwe ibi)?
  [sheh leh soh me (see ee-weh ee-bee)]
• When's the next (bus)?Nibo ni o dun (bus)?
  [nee-boh nee oh doon (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Ẹda (si ....)
  [eh-dah (see)]

Ikeja's history dates back to the pre-colonial era when it was primarily inhabited by the Yoruba people. The area served as a significant settlement and was known for its agricultural activities, with the indigenous population engaging in farming and trade. Ikeja's strategic location within the Lagos region made it an essential hub for commerce and governance.

With the arrival of British colonial powers in the late 19th century, Ikeja began to evolve. In 1914, Ikeja was designated as the capital of Lagos Colony, which marked a significant shift in its administrative importance. The establishment of government offices and infrastructure during this time laid the groundwork for its future development.

During World War II, Ikeja became strategically important as a military base for the British forces. The area was expanded to accommodate military installations, which acted as a training ground and logistical support center for operations in West Africa. This military presence brought about infrastructural development in Ikeja, contributing to its growth.

Following Nigeria's independence in 1960, Ikeja continued to thrive as a vital administrative and commercial center. It was during this period that Ikeja became home to various government institutions, educational establishments, and industries, further solidifying its role in the Lagos metropolis.

Today, Ikeja is known for its vibrant culture, blending traditional Yoruba customs with contemporary influences. The area hosts numerous cultural festivals, markets, and events that reflect the rich heritage of the Yoruba people. Notable landmarks, such as the Ikeja City Mall and the National Museum Lagos, symbolize the neighborhood's evolution into a modern urban center while still preserving its historical roots.

Ikeja, the capital of Lagos State, is well-connected to other parts of Lagos. From Lagos Island, you can take a taxi, ride-hailing service, or a bus to Ikeja, which typically takes about 30-60 minutes depending on traffic. The nearest airport is Murtala Muhammed International Airport, located in Ikeja itself, making it easily accessible for international travelers. Additionally, the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system provides a reliable option for commuting from various parts of the city, including Victoria Island and Lekki.

Ikeja is relatively easy to navigate with several options available. Public buses and the BRT system are affordable and effective for getting around. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are widely used, offering convenient door-to-door service. For a more local experience, consider using motorcycle taxis (okadas), but ensure you wear a helmet. Bicycles are not commonly used, but walking is feasible in some areas, especially around shopping centers and parks.

Ikeja is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Areas like Allen Avenue and Ikeja City Mall are popular and typically safe. However, avoid secluded areas, especially at night, and be cautious in places known for petty crime, such as the markets. Be vigilant with your belongings in crowded places and refrain from displaying valuables. It's advisable to consult locals or your hotel for specific safety tips.

In case of emergencies, dial 112 for police assistance or 07082810000 for medical emergencies. It's advisable to have local emergency numbers saved on your phone. The major hospitals in Ikeja include Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) and Reddington Hospital. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Local pharmacies are available for minor health issues, but for serious conditions, seek professional medical help immediately.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious settings; avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; always ask for permission before photographing people, particularly in religious sites. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and pregnant women; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and a smile; don’t be overly familiar or use first names unless invited. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like jollof rice and suya; don’t refuse food offerings as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Ikeja like a local, visit the Ikeja City Mall for shopping and dining. Explore the local markets, such as the Computer Village for electronics and the Ikeja Shopping Mall for a variety of goods. Engage with locals to learn about their culture and history; they are generally friendly and welcoming. Don’t miss visiting the National Museum Lagos for insights into Nigeria’s rich heritage. For a taste of local nightlife, check out the bars and clubs along Allen Avenue.