Traveling from the bustling Marina business district (CMS) on Lagos Island to the state capital, Ikeja, is a primary mainland-bound route. Spanning approximately 22 kilometers, this journey typically involves crossing the Third Mainland Bridge or traversing the Ikorodu Road corridor. Commuters have a range of options from regulated high-capacity buses to more flexible commercial Danfos and the modern Red Line rail system. Choosing the right mode and timing is essential to navigate the unpredictable evening rush hour traffic that defines this corridor.
Distance
22.0 km
Chance to get bus/car
Normal flow
Hold-up Delay Today
No hold-up
Time you will wait at park
-15 to -10 mins wait
Fare Price Level
Normal Fares
How Road Be Now
Traffic is easing up as the day winds down.
Hold-up delay
+22 mins delay
* Based on regular route reports
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Locate the official CMS Bus Terminal situated at the Marina waterfront, easily accessible via the pedestrian bridge. Proceed to the designated bay for 'Ikeja' or 'Ogba' and join the structured queue for high-capacity regulated buses.
Once boarded, the bus will navigate through the Outer Marina road and ascend the Third Mainland Bridge or follow the Ikorodu Road dedicated BRT lane. This stretch offers a scenic view of the Lagoon before the bus enters the mainland transit corridor.
Alight at either the Ikeja Along bus stop (ideal for Computer Village) or the final Ikeja Bus Terminal near the railway crossing. Ensure you have your Cowry Card ready to tap off if required by the current fare system.
Departure between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM is highly recommended to avoid both the morning Island-bound surge and the heavy evening mainland-bound rush.
Always ensure your Cowry Card is funded with at least ₦1,000 to cover the trip and any potential fare adjustments during peak hours.
Keep your belongings secure in the CMS terminal area, as it is a major transit node with significant foot traffic.
If you are heading to the Alausa Secretariat, confirm if the bus stops at the 'Secretariat' junction before boarding.
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Duration
55 mins
Total Cost
₦750 - ₦950
Status
Verified Route
How Road Be Now
Traffic is easing up as the day winds down.
Hold-up delay
+22 mins delay
* Based on regular route reports
Bypass the Ikeja Under-Bridge corridor from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM. Traffic builds rapidly due to commercial buses loading along the main road lanes.
Areas Affected
75% confidence based on 12 commuter reports
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30-60 Min
Same-day
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Bypass the Ikeja Under-Bridge corridor from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM. Traffic builds rapidly due to commercial buses loading along the main road lanes.
Areas Affected
Lagos State Network
During off-peak hours, a direct regulated bus or a ride-hailing service taking the Third Mainland Bridge is the fastest, typically taking about 35-45 minutes. During peak hours, the Red Line train (if connecting further down the route) is the most reliable way to beat the road gridlock.
The official regulated bus terminal is located on the Marina waterfront. You can access it via the pedestrian bridge that crosses over the main Marina highway near the CMS Cathedral.
Yes, it is generally safe as both CMS and Ikeja are major, well-patrolled hubs. However, it is advisable to use regulated terminals and avoid boarding unofficial commercial buses ('Danfos') alone late at night.
Most regulated buses heading to Ikeja via Ikorodu Road will stop at the Maryland bus stop. However, those taking the Third Mainland Bridge express route may bypass Maryland entirely. Always confirm the specific stops with the terminal officials.