Traveling from Makoko to Ikeja involves a few stages, especially if you're using public transport. The journey typically covers a distance of about 15-20 kilometers, depending on the exact starting and ending points and the route taken.

1. Public Transport (Danfo/BRT)

This is the most common and cost-effective way to travel for many Lagos residents.

• Step 1: From Makoko to Yaba Bus Stop

  From any point within Makoko, your first goal is to get to the main Yaba Bus Stop or Adekunle Bus Stop. You can easily find Keke Napep (tricycles) or local mini-buses (korope) that will take you to Yaba Bus Stop. This is a short ride.

• Step 2: From Yaba to Ikeja

  Once at Yaba Bus Stop, you have a few options to get to Ikeja:

  • Option A (Direct Bus): Look for yellow buses (Danfo) heading directly to Ikeja Underbridge, Maryland, or Ojota. These buses usually take the Ikorodu Road route. If you get a bus going to Ojota, you can then easily find another bus from Ojota to Ikeja Underbridge or Maryland.
  • Option B (Via Fadeyi/Jibowu): Some buses from Yaba might go towards Fadeyi or Jibowu. From there, you can easily connect to another bus heading towards Ikeja (e.g., to Maryland, Oshodi, or Ikeja Underbridge).
  • Option C (BRT Option): You can take a BRT bus from Yaba to Iyana-Oworo. From Iyana-Oworo, you'll need to find another bus going through Ojota towards Ikeja. This might involve an extra stage but can sometimes be faster if the BRT lane is clear.

  The most straightforward public transport route usually involves getting to Yaba Bus Stop, then finding a direct bus to Maryland or Ikeja Underbridge. From Maryland, Ikeja City Mall and other parts of Ikeja are very close.

2. Ride-Hailing Services (Bolt/Uber)

For more convenience and a direct journey, ride-hailing services like Bolt or Uber are excellent options. Simply request a ride from your exact location in Makoko to your destination in Ikeja. This eliminates the need for multiple bus changes and offers comfort, especially if you have luggage.

3. Private Car

If you're driving your private car, the most common route would involve taking the Third Mainland Bridge from the Yaba axis, exiting at Oworonshoki, and then connecting to Ikorodu Road towards Maryland and Ikeja. Alternatively, you could navigate through the mainland via Yaba, Jibowu, Fadeyi, and then onto Ikorodu Road towards Ikeja. Be prepared for Lagos traffic, which can be unpredictable.

Current Fare Estimates (₦) - 2026

Please note that these are estimated fare ranges and can fluctuate based on fuel prices, traffic, time of day (peak hours), and specific bus conductor decisions. It's always good to confirm the fare before boarding.

Total Estimated Public Transport Cost: Approximately ₦550 - ₦1200, depending on the route and number of stages.

Best Departure Points

Knowing the right place to start your journey can save you time and stress.

• From Makoko:
  • Makoko Bus Stop: This is the most central point within the Makoko community where you can find transport to Yaba.
  • Adekunle Bus Stop (Yaba): Located just outside the immediate Makoko area, it's a major hub for buses heading in various directions across Lagos.
• From Ikeja:
  • Ikeja Underbridge (Along Awolowo Way): A major bus terminal where you can find buses going to almost any part of Lagos, including Yaba.
  • Maryland Bus Stop: A key junction on Ikorodu Road, offering connections to Yaba and other parts of the mainland.
  • Computer Village (Otigba Street/Medical Road): If you're coming from this area, you can easily find buses heading towards Maryland or Ikeja Underbridge to connect to Yaba.

Safety and Travel Tips

Traveling in Lagos can be an adventure. Here are some tips to make your journey between Makoko and Ikeja safer and more efficient:

• Plan Ahead: Lagos traffic is legendary. Try to avoid peak hours (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM) if possible, especially on weekdays.
• Confirm Fares: Always ask the bus conductor for the fare to your destination before you board, especially if you're unsure.
• Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded buses and bus stops.
• Cash is King: While ride-hailing apps use cashless payments, public transport (Danfo, Keke) requires cash. Have smaller denominations (₦100, ₦200, ₦500) ready.
• Use Reputable Ride-Hailing: If using Bolt or Uber, ensure the vehicle details match what's on your app before entering.
• Stay Hydrated: Lagos weather can be hot. Carry water, especially for longer journeys.

In conclusion, while Makoko and Ikeja are not "close" in the sense of being adjacent, they are well-connected by Lagos's transport network. With a little planning and awareness, your journey between these two unique parts of Lagos will be smooth and straightforward.

Safe travels!

Recommended Reads

• Where is Makoko Located in Lagos? LGA, Landmarks & Transport Guide
• Where is Ikeja Located in Lagos? LGA, Landmarks & Transport Guide
• Is Ikeja Mainland or Island? The Definitive Guide to Lagos Geography