Ikate, Lekki, Lagos – Where Elegance Meets Convenience

by Bright Ugochukwu
Last Updated: Sep 16, 2025

Ikate, Lekki, is one of the most desirable residential neighbourhoods in Lagos.

Known for its well-paved roads, secure estates, and proximity to Lekki’s biggest landmarks, Ikate blends elegance with day-to-day convenience.

Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a real estate investor, Ikate has carved out a reputation as one of the prime spots in Lagos to live and invest.

Ikate Lekki Top Highlights

Prime Location: Ikate sits between Lekki Phase 1 and Chevron, offering quick access to Victoria Island and Ikoyi.
Safe & Secure: The area is known for gated estates, private security, and a generally safe environment.
Modern Infrastructure: Well-paved roads, drainage, and a reliable power supply set Ikate apart in Lagos.
Lifestyle Perks: Residents enjoy malls, top restaurants, quality schools, hospitals, gyms, and beaches nearby.
Real Estate Options: From luxury apartments to duplexes, terraces, and land for development.
Strong Investment Value: Properties in Ikate have high rental demand and steady appreciation.

An Overview of Ikate, Lekki

Ikate has transformed into a vibrant urban community that combines modern living with strategic access to the rest of Lagos.

Residents enjoy a mix of luxury homes, quality infrastructure, and easy access to workplaces, schools, hospitals, and recreation. With its growing real estate market, Ikate has quickly become one of the fastest-rising residential hubs in Lekki.

Where is Ikate Located?

Ikate sits in Lekki Phase 1 Extension, strategically positioned off the Lekki-Epe Expressway.

It shares boundaries with Chevron Drive, Ajah, and the Lekki Phase 1 corridor. From Ikate, residents can easily connect to Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and other business districts within 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic.

Its central location is one of its strongest selling points for professionals who want quick access to Lagos’ commercial centres.

The History and Development of Ikate

Years ago, Ikate was a quiet community with scattered developments.

However, the rise of Lekki as a prime residential and business zone changed the story. By the mid-2000s, Ikate began attracting developers who built gated estates, luxury apartments, and duplexes.

Today, it is recognized as one of Lekki’s premium residential enclaves, home to middle- and upper-class professionals, expatriates, and investors.

Why Choose Ikate? The Benefits of Living Here

When considering a neighbourhood in Lagos, the decision often comes down to lifestyle, convenience, and long-term value. Ikate checks all three boxes.

Strategic Location and Connectivity

Living in Ikate means cutting down on long commutes. The Lekki-Epe Expressway runs directly past the area, giving residents smooth access to Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Lekki’s booming commercial hubs.

The Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge also makes movement easier for residents who work in Ikoyi or Victoria Island. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available, and the road network within Ikate is well-laid and connected to major estates.

Pro Tip: If you work in Victoria Island or Ikoyi, living in Ikate saves you up to 30 minutes of commute time compared to staying further down Lekki.

A Reputation for Safety and Security

Security is one of Ikate’s strongest appeals. The neighbourhood is filled with gated estates, each with private security systems, CCTV, and access control.

In addition, community security patrols and estate associations work together to maintain peace. Compared to some parts of Lagos, Ikate is considered a relatively safe neighbourhood, making it a preferred choice for families and expatriates.

Well-Planned Infrastructure and Amenities

Ikate stands out because of its infrastructure. The roads are interlocked and well-drained, minimising flooding during rainy seasons.

Most estates provide uninterrupted electricity through central power systems or standby generators.

Streetlights add to the safety and beauty of the area at night, while water supply is reliable in most developments. These infrastructural features set Ikate apart from many Lagos neighbourhoods.

Lifestyle and Amenities in Ikate

Ikate is more than real estate. It offers a complete lifestyle package, from shopping to healthcare, leisure, and education.

Shopping and Retail Therapy

Ikate is close to popular shopping spots like Circle Mall, SPAR Supermarket, and Eleganza Shopping Plaza.

Within the neighbourhood, you’ll also find mini-marts, high-end boutiques, and home goods stores. For quick shopping, smaller convenience shops and fresh food markets are scattered across estates.

Pro Tip: Circle Mall is the go-to for big shopping, but for fresh groceries at better prices, try the small farmer’s markets within Ikate’s gated estates.

A Culinary Journey: Restaurants and Eateries

The food scene in and around Ikate is thriving. Residents can enjoy a diverse range of restaurants and lounges, from traditional Nigerian delicacies to international cuisines.

Popular spots include The House Café, Bayroot Lounge, and Bungalow Restaurant. Food delivery services are also widely available, with restaurants on Jumia Food and Glovo catering to Ikate residents.

Educational Institutions: Schools and Creches

For families, Ikate has access to some of Lagos’ best private schools.

Notable names include Lekki British School, Greensprings School (Lekki campus), and Caleb International College.

Within the neighbourhood itself, there are reputable crèches and nurseries that make it easier for working parents to find quality childcare.

Pro Tip: When choosing schools in Ikate, always ask about after-school programs. Many top schools in the area offer extended hours, making life easier for working parents.

Healthcare Facilities

Ikate has several hospitals and clinics that provide reliable healthcare.

Notable facilities include Evercare Hospital, First City Hospital, and St. Nicholas Hospital (Lekki branch). Pharmacies and diagnostic centres are also located within the neighbourhood, ensuring quick access to medical services.

Leisure and Recreation

Life in Ikate is balanced with leisure options.

Residents have access to fitness centres, swimming pools, and social clubs. Leisure spaces such as Landmark Beach, Filmhouse Cinemas, and Elegushi Beach are only a few minutes away. Gyms like iFitness and private estate recreational centres provide options for active lifestyles.

The Ikate Real Estate Market

Ikate is not only a residential haven but also a strong investment destination.

Types of Properties Available

Luxury Apartments and Flats

Developers have built a wide range of modern apartments in Ikate, from 2-bedroom flats to penthouses.

These typically come with features like elevators, fitted kitchens, and 24-hour power. They are popular with young professionals and investors looking for high rental demand.

Stylish Duplexes and Terraced Houses

Duplexes and terrace houses dominate the market.

These homes, often with 4 to 5 bedrooms, BQ, and private parking, appeal to families who want space and comfort.

Many come with luxury touches like Bluetooth speakers, high ceilings, and smart home systems.

Plots of Land and New Developments

For investors who prefer to build, Ikate still has plots available, though at premium rates.

Off-plan projects are also common, with developers offering flexible payment plans. These present opportunities for long-term capital appreciation.

Understanding Property Values and Rental Rates

Property Type	Sale Price Range (₦)	Annual Rent Range (₦)
Apartments (2–3 bedroom)	80M – 200M	4M – 12M
Duplexes & Terraces (4–5 BR)	150M – 400M	6M – 18M
Land (per sqm)	250K – 400K	N/A

Table 1: Property Prices and Rental Rates in Ikate, Lekki

Property prices in Ikate vary depending on size, location, and estate facilities.

Apartments: ₦80M – ₦200M for sale; ₦4M – ₦12M yearly rent
Duplexes/Terraces: ₦150M – ₦400M for sale; ₦6M – ₦18M yearly rent
Land: ₦250k – ₦400k per sqm, depending on location within Ikate

Rental yields remain strong, with high demand from young professionals and expatriates who prefer secure and serviced estates.

Pro Tip: Rental demand in Ikate is strongest for 2- and 3-bedroom apartments. If you’re investing, this category offers the fastest occupancy rates.

Investment Potential in Ikate

Ikate’s real estate market has consistently appreciated over the past decade.

Its proximity to Lekki Phase 1, Victoria Island, and Chevron Drive makes it a hotspot for both rentals and resale.

Investors can expect rental yields between 6% and 9% annually, depending on property type. With Lagos’ population growth and continuous demand for premium housing, Ikate remains a safe and profitable choice.

Things to Consider Before Moving to Ikate

While Ikate is highly attractive, it’s important to consider a few realities before making the move.

Traffic and Transportation

Ikate is directly along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, which can get congested during peak hours. Morning traffic towards Victoria Island and evening traffic towards Ajah are common.

However, being closer to Lekki Phase 1 means residents often have a slight advantage over those living further down the axis. Ride-hailing apps make commuting easier.

Pro Tip: Plan your commute between 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM if you can. Peak-hour traffic is heaviest between 7–9 AM and 5–8 PM.

Cost of Living

Ikate is a premium area, and the cost of living reflects this. Rent, groceries, school fees, and service charges are higher compared to mainland Lagos or less developed parts of Lekki.

However, residents often see this as a worthwhile trade-off for the lifestyle, security, and convenience that Ikate offers.

Is Ikate the Right Neighbourhood for You?

Ikate, Lekki, offers a rare blend of elegance and practicality. With its secure estates, good infrastructure, and proximity to business hubs, it remains one of the best places to live or invest in Lagos.

Families benefit from quality schools and healthcare, professionals enjoy short commutes, and investors see steady returns.

If you are searching for a neighbourhood that delivers both lifestyle and long-term value, Ikate stands out as an excellent choice.