Agege Market: Inside the Daily Hustle of Lagos’ Most Iconic Trading Hub

Agege, one of Lagos State’s busiest suburbs, is home to a market that does more than trade goods—it fuels the local economy and keeps the community alive. Located at Pen Cinema, Agege market is a lifeline for thousands of traders who wake before dawn to sustain their families, overcome daily challenges, and keep the neighbourhood buzzing.

With a population of more than 700,000, Agege sits centrally in Lagos, bordered by Abule Egba, Ikeja, Iyana Ipaja and Ogba. But it is the market at Pen Cinema that defines the area’s identity, where commerce, culture and survival merge in a daily display of resilience.

A Dawn-to-Dusk Rhythm

The market comes alive as early as 5 a.m., when traders begin unloading produce and arranging their stalls. Women carry baskets of fresh vegetables from nearby farms, while men offload food supplies from trucks. The soundscape is unmistakable—bargaining, greetings and prayers filling the air as the market prepares for another day.

For many traders, the market is more than a workplace. It is a second home.

“This is our second home. We spend more time here than in our houses,” said Mrs. Yetunde Lawal, popularly known as “Mama Risi,” a vegetable seller who has traded at Agege market for over 20 years. “It is where we earn, where we meet people, and where our children grow up.”

Survival, Growth and Daily Struggles

Many traders live in modest homes within Agege and neighbouring communities, making the market not only a place of work but also a social centre. For young shoe trader Mr. Ayodeji Adegbite, the market represents opportunity.

“I started with a small table. Now, I have rented a shop,” he said. “It is not easy, but if you are patient, you can grow.”

But traders face daily challenges. Inadequate infrastructure, unreliable electricity supply, and poor waste management are constant hurdles. During the rainy season, flooding disrupts business and destroys goods, worsening the already difficult working conditions.

Calls for Better Infrastructure and Security

Fabric seller Mrs. Kehinde Ojo highlighted the need for improved drainage and cleaner surroundings.

“Customers hesitate when the environment is dirty. It affects our sales,” she said.

Security is also a major concern. Traders worry about petty theft and risks at night, although a recent street lighting project by the local council has offered some relief.

“Before, thieves would hide in dark corners,” said meat seller Mr. Ibrahim Abdulrahman. “Now, at least, we feel safer closing late.”

A Cultural Melting Pot

Beyond business, Agege market is a cultural meeting point. Traders from Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa and other ethnic groups coexist peacefully, each contributing to the market’s unique character. This diversity, many traders say, strengthens the community.

“We are like one family here,” said Mrs. Chinelo Okafor, a household items seller. “Even if we quarrel over prices and customers, we settle quickly because we depend on each other.”