Lagos is one of the most dynamic cities in the world and Lekki is where most expats choose to base themselves. Here is everything you need to know about living in Lekki as an expat.
Why Expats Choose Lekki
Lekki has become the default choice for expats in Lagos for good reason. The combination of relative safety, international-standard restaurants and amenities, a community of like-minded professionals, and proximity to the business districts on Victoria Island makes it the most liveable part of Lagos for international residents.
Finding Accommodation
Most expats start with a shortlet apartment while they settle in — typically 1-4 weeks — before transitioning to a longer-term rental. This allows you to understand the different Lekki neighbourhoods before committing to an annual lease.
Recommended approach:
- Book a shortlet in Lekki Phase 1 for your first 2-4 weeks
- Use that time to explore different areas and talk to other expats
- Work with a reputable letting agent for your long-term rental
- Always verify documentation — particularly Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Banking
All major Nigerian banks have branches in Lekki. As an expat, you will need a valid passport and visa, proof of address in Nigeria, and a Tax Identification Number (TIN) for some accounts.
Most expat-friendly banks: GTBank, Zenith Bank, Standard Chartered
Healthcare
Lekki has excellent private healthcare:
- Reddington Hospital — The most recommended expat-grade hospital in Lagos
- Lagoon Hospital — High-quality private hospital
- Doyen Medical Centre — Good for primary care
Always get comprehensive health insurance before arriving in Lagos.
The Expat Community in Lekki
The expat community in Lekki is large, active, and welcoming. Connect through:
- Expats in Lagos Facebook group
- InterNations Lagos — Regular events and meetups
- Lagos Expat Forum on Facebook
- Sunday brunch spots like Circa Lagos — you will meet fellow expats naturally
Practical Tips for New Expats
- Generator culture — Power cuts are part of Lagos life. Ensure your building has reliable generator backup.
- Traffic — The Lekki-Epe Expressway can be brutal. Build extra time into all plans.
- Negotiation — Prices in markets and with service providers are often negotiable.
- Domestic help — Cleaners, cooks, and drivers are affordable and common. Get referrals from other expats.
- WhatsApp — Everything in Lagos runs on WhatsApp. Get a Nigerian SIM card immediately.
Living in Lekki Verdict
Lagos will challenge you and reward you in equal measure. Lekki makes the transition significantly easier — the infrastructure, community, and lifestyle here genuinely rival major international cities. Give yourself 3 months to adjust and you will likely never want to leave.
Arriving in Lagos soon? Our shortlet apartment in Lekki Phase 1 is the perfect expat landing pad. Fully furnished, all utilities included, professional management. Book here.