1 / 4National Museum Lagos
Nigeria's main national museum in Onikan, with Nok terracottas, Benin plaques and Igbo-Ukwu bronzes.
Onikan, Lagos, Lagos
Budget₦2,000 entry
Founded in 1957, the museum holds around 47,000 objects from across Nigeria: the Nok terracotta Jemaa Head, 9th-century Igbo-Ukwu bronzes, Benin plaques and ivory, masks, textiles, musical instruments, and the car General Murtala Mohammed was assassinated in.
The main gallery reopened in April 2026 after its first big renovation in over 20 years. Its "Echoes of the Past" exhibition runs from the oldest pieces to the newest, you can touch some of the wood and metal objects, and photos are allowed. Another gallery is still shut for renovation. Allow about 90 minutes, and pair it with the John Randle Centre across the road.
What you can do here
Echoes of the Past gallery
Renovated in 2026: arranged oldest to newest, some pieces you can touch, photos allowed.
Children's park
More in Lagos: Museum exhibits · Kids' playground
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Good to know
Who it works for
- Kid-friendly
- Good for groups
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