National Museum Lagos
Discover Nigeria's rich past at the National Museum Lagos, showcasing art, history, and cultural artifacts. A journey through time.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
National Museum Lagos
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Nigeria's rich past at the National Museum Lagos, showcasing art, history, and cultural artifacts. A journey through time.
"A beautiful and serene place that allowed me to walk down the memory/historical lane of Nigeria."
🎯 Budget-Friendly Entry
Entry is around 1000-1500 NGN. Consider skipping a guide if you know Nigerian history! :moneybag:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking through the galleries, so wear comfy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Assassination Car
Gallery
See the actual car where General Murtala Muhammad was tragically assassinated, a poignant piece of Nigerian political history.
Tribal History Galleries
Indoor Galleries
Explore the rich history and diverse cultures of Nigeria's various tribes through well-preserved artifacts and exhibits.

Pre-Colonial Artifacts
Gallery
Journey back in time with ancient relics and treasured artifacts that offer a glimpse into Nigeria's pre-colonial era.

Children's Playground
Outdoor Area
A fun and safe space for kids to play, making the museum visit enjoyable for the whole family.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Smoother Visit
Budget-Friendly Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Budget-Friendly Entry
Entry is around 1000-1500 NGN. Consider skipping a guide if you know Nigerian history!
:moneybag:👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking through the galleries, so wear comfy shoes.
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the History
Bring your phone or camera to snap photos of the fascinating exhibits and historical items.
:iphone:⏳ Allow 1.5-2 Hours
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the galleries and take pictures.
:stopwatch:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Budget-Friendly Entry
Entry is around 1000-1500 NGN. Consider skipping a guide if you know Nigerian history!
:moneybag:👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking through the galleries, so wear comfy shoes.
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the History
Bring your phone or camera to snap photos of the fascinating exhibits and historical items.
:iphone:⏳ Allow 1.5-2 Hours
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the galleries and take pictures.
:stopwatch:👨👩👧 Family Fun Zone
There's a playground for kids, making it a great outing for families.
:child:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the National Museum Lagos to be a valuable place for learning about Nigerian history and culture, with well-preserved relics and artifacts. While some note areas for improvement in maintenance and historical completeness, it's generally considered a worthwhile and affordable experience for families and history enthusiasts alike.
"I went there years ago as a teenager and decided to revisit this place as an adult. It was still quite the same.
Well preserved old relics, and lots of history there.
We paid N1,500 for entrance and we didn’t use a tour guide. There was no need and most of the relics were self explanatory especially as native Nigerians who knew a little about history.
You will be done with the tour in 2 hours or so if you’re snapping pics and making videos.
It was a fun experience."
Clare Egwuatu
"1. I wonder what happened to all the pictures of the old Lagos.
2. Many pictorial gaps in the pre-colonial and national history.
3. I will suggest the display of old currencies and a write-up on the persons in the current ones showing why they were considered worthy of being placed on National currency."
Wily Kay
"This place hold a unique historical view and explanations to many Nigeria events.
It worth exploring for learning purposes and time with family and friends.
Safe for kids too
I really had fun here after the whole touring"
Ekele Christopher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Museum Lagos is located at Onikan, Lagos Island. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt, or local buses. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
While specific parking details can vary, there is generally space available for visitors. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Yes, various local bus routes pass through or near Onikan. However, for convenience and safety, ride-sharing services are often preferred by visitors.
Using navigation apps on your phone is highly recommended. Ride-sharing apps are very popular and reliable for getting around Lagos.
Information on accessibility for visitors with mobility issues is limited. It's best to contact the museum directly for specific details regarding ramps or elevators.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around 1,000 NGN for Nigerian citizens and 1,500 NGN for foreigners. Prices can sometimes vary, so it's good to check upon arrival.
Yes, you can purchase tickets in person at the museum's entrance. It's recommended to buy them upon arrival.
Information on specific discounts for students or children is not widely advertised. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter for any available concessions.
The museum is generally open from Monday to Saturday, typically from 9 AM to 5 PM. However, hours can change, so it's wise to confirm before your visit.
Advance booking is usually not required for general entry. Tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on Nigerian art, history, and culture, including tribal artifacts, historical relics, and the car in which General Murtala Muhammad was assassinated.
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum, depending on their pace and interest in the exhibits.
While tour guides are available, many visitors find the exhibits self-explanatory, especially if they have some background knowledge of Nigerian history.
The museum primarily focuses on static displays of artifacts and historical items. While informative, they are not typically interactive in a modern sense.
Some reviews suggest that while the artifacts are well-preserved, the overall maintenance of the location could be improved.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Currently, there are no significant dining facilities or cafes reported within the museum premises. Visitors may need to dine outside the museum.
The museum is located in a central area of Lagos Island, with various restaurants and eateries nearby offering diverse culinary experiences.
It's generally advisable to check the museum's policy on outside food and drinks. However, it's common for such institutions to discourage eating within exhibition areas.
Yes, you can find local eateries and street food vendors in the vicinity offering affordable Nigerian cuisine.
The surrounding area offers a mix of traditional Nigerian dishes, continental options, and fast food.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
While personal photography is usually permitted, professional photography or videography might require special permission. Avoid using flash in dimly lit galleries.
The architecture of the museum itself, the historical artifacts, and the assassination car are popular subjects for photos. The aerial shots also showcase the museum's grandeur.
Drone usage is typically restricted in such public spaces. For aerial shots like those seen on social media, it's likely the museum administration or a professional videographer was involved.
The tribal artifacts and the historical relics, especially those from the pre-colonial era, offer unique photographic opportunities. The assassination car is also a significant visual point.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, consider going on a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds. This will allow children to explore the galleries at their own pace without feeling rushed. The self-explanatory nature of many exhibits means you can tailor the learning experience to your children's age and interests.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your museum visit with a packed lunch or explore local eateries nearby for affordable meals. The museum's location on Lagos Island also means you can easily access other budget-friendly attractions in the vicinity, making for a cost-effective day of exploration.
📚 History Buffs
Pay special attention to the galleries detailing tribal histories and the poignant exhibit of General Murtala Muhammad's assassination car. While some visitors note gaps in certain historical periods, the existing collection offers a valuable perspective on Nigeria's complex and rich heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Nigerian History and Culture
The museum houses several galleries, each focusing on different aspects of Nigerian history. You'll find displays detailing the traditions, beliefs, and daily lives of various Nigerian tribes, offering insights into the country's diverse ethnic landscape. The pre-colonial era is well-represented, with artifacts that speak to the ingenuity and artistry of early Nigerian societies.
Beyond cultural displays, the museum also touches upon significant political moments. A particularly striking exhibit is the car in which General Murtala Muhammad was assassinated, a somber reminder of a pivotal event in Nigeria's political history. This blend of cultural and political history makes the National Museum Lagos a compelling destination for anyone seeking to understand Nigeria's journey.
Family-Friendly Visit to the Museum
While exploring the galleries, parents can use the exhibits as teaching moments, introducing their children to Nigerian history and culture in an engaging way. The self-explanatory nature of many displays means children can learn at their own pace. The relatively affordable entry fee also makes it an accessible option for families looking for budget-friendly activities.
It's advisable to plan your visit during less crowded times, such as weekday mornings, to ensure a more comfortable experience for children. Bringing snacks and drinks might be necessary as on-site dining options are limited, but the presence of a playground ensures that even the youngest visitors will find something to enjoy.
Photography Opportunities at the Museum
Social media content often showcases impressive aerial views of the museum, highlighting its grandeur and layout. While personal photography is generally permitted, it's wise to be mindful of any restrictions on flash usage, especially in dimly lit galleries, to protect the delicate artifacts.
When visiting, consider the lighting conditions in different galleries. Some areas might be darker, requiring a good camera or phone with low-light capabilities. Capturing the intricate details of the tribal art and pre-colonial relics can result in stunning photographs that tell a story of Nigeria's past.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit