Idumota is a part of the larger Lagos Island market, Eko. It’s a huge market that sells a wide range of items, from bags to shoes, to baking items, you can think of a lot. From traditional to modern goods, you can get all you can think of from Idumota (well, almost all).
Before I delve into what you can get from Idumota, I’ll tell you what you have to be.
You have to be strong, you have to be healthy, and you have to be able to stay sane amidst chaos; most importantly, you have to be a confident negotiator because Idumota is not for the weak.
When I say negotiator, I mean- they tell you the price, and you offer them your price. That’s rule #1: Never accept the first price. Rule #2 is: when they say “This is my last price,” it’s never the last price. If they are not willing, on to the next. Some of us count five steps until we hear “aunty/uncle come back o”, then we know we have the upper hand. If you don’t hear the callback, you have two options. You can shamelessly turn back and haggle for longer with the same vendor, or repeat the same process with another vendor.
Shopping in Idumota market could be fun, but when you consider the scorching sun and the smelly environment, you just want to be home as soon as possible.
Here are a few things you can get in Idumota
- Food
- Fabrics
- Clothing Items
- Electronic gadgets
- Arts and crafts
- Household items
Are you a tourist or a Nigerian visiting Lagos for the first time, looking for where to get nice and affordable things? Don’t worry, let me take you to explore the Idumota market and the things you can get there.
1. Food Items
This market is not just about buying goods and products, it’s also a spot for local delicacies and fresh produce. We have street food like suya, puff-puff (everybody’s favorite), and akara, quick tasting bites that help you stay sustained while scouring the market.
At Idumota, you are sure to find assorted meat, fresh, smoked, or dry- straight from the butchers, including goat, beef, and chicken. Aside from that, there are also stalls packed with seasonal fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and bananas, as well as vegetables, ready to be sold.
2. Cosmetic Products
One of Idumota’s best-kept secrets is its wide selection of beauty products at wholesale prices. You can find: Lotions, creams, and soaps, almost any skincare product from local and international brands, hair care essentials like relaxers, shampoos, conditioners, and hair extensions, makeup items like foundations, lipsticks, eyeliners, and more at lower prices compared to retail stores. Amazingly, you can find various fragrances, both the dupes and original perfumes alike, at affordable rates. This makes Idumota a go-to spot for salon owners, makeup artists, and beauty enthusiasts looking to stock up.
3. Fabrics
If you’re a fashion lover, Idumota market is your fabric haven. You’ll find vibrant and high-quality Ankara & African prints for traditional outfits, Lace and George materials, for the owambes or special occasions, even plain and patterned textiles: from cotton to silk, for everyday wear or tailoring. There are many wholesalers in Idumota, so it’s a great place for bulk purchases at discounted prices.
4. Clothing Items
From Ready-to-Wear(RTW) to custom styles, if you don’t have time to sew, no problem! Idumota has countless shops selling men’s and women’s fashion; shirts, trousers, dresses, and corporate wear, all available. You will also find children’s clothing, affordable school uniforms, and casual outfits for every size. Okrika (Second-Hand) clothes, which are gently used imported clothes, are also available at bargain prices.
5. Electronic Gadgets
Tech enthusiasts can find both brand-new and refurbished electronics, including affordable smartphones, chargers, and power banks. If you need computer appliances, there are laptops, keyboards, and even USB cables. Home appliances like blenders, generators, and sound systems are not left out as well.
6. Arts and Crafts
Looking for souvenirs or home decor? Fret not. Idumota market offers handmade jewelry as beaded necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and more. You will also find traditional African art pieces like wooden carvings and sculptures, as well as decor items, wall hangings, baskets, and pottery. These make perfect gifts!
7. Household Items
Everything you need for your home is right there at Idumota market. From kitchenware to cleaning pots, Idumota has it all. pots, plates, cutlery- every form of utensil and cookware you need, or is it beddings and curtains? Idumota has affordable linens and window treatments.
Beyond the obvious finds, Idumota hides some surprising treasures. Look out for Traditional Medicine Stalls where herbal remedies blend into modern wellness trends, bridal Accessories, from gele fabrics to custom jewelry for weddings, office Supplies; you could get bulk stationery at business-friendly prices, and Import/Export Goods where you discover unique items from international markets. These lesser-known offerings make Idumota truly special for sharp shoppers.
What makes Idumota truly special? It’s that feeling of discovery you get with every visit. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, you’ll turn a corner and find something completely new, maybe a vendor selling rare spices you’ve never seen before, or a craftsman working on traditional beads right before your eyes. The real treasures often hide beyond the main walkways, in those narrow alleys where the locals shop.
Let’s be honest, Idumota is not for everyone. The crowds can be a lot, the sun shines mercilessly, with sweat running down your back, and some days, the haggling that you somehow can’t escape wears you out. But here’s why people keep coming back: you’ll hardly find anywhere else in Lagos that gives you this combination of unbeatable prices, jaw-dropping variety, and that raw, unfiltered market energy.
For business owners, it’s even better. The wholesale deals here help boost profit. The regulars know that with some patience and good negotiating skills, you’ll leave with bags full of quality goods while keeping some extra cash in your pocket. Plus, you definitely won’t find this diversity in shopping malls.
Beyond shopping, Idumota engulfs you with the contagious energy of Lagos. The sounds, smells, and interactions make it a lively part of Nigerian commerce.
What was your experience at Idumota like? Share your stories in the comments!
