Are you a tech professional, student, or young professional looking for the heart of Lagos' innovation scene? Yaba might be the perfect neighbourhood for you. This complete guide reveals why Yaba has become Nigeria's Silicon Valley and what it's like to live there in 2025.
Yaba is undoubtedly Lagos' original tech and education hub, perfectly blending rich colonial history with modern innovation. Located strategically between the mainland and Lagos Island, this bustling district has completely transformed from its early 20th-century roots as a railway terminus into Nigeria's version of "Silicon Valley."
As of 2025, Yaba's small 4.5 square kilometer area is home to over 250,000 residents. The area attracts students, tech entrepreneurs, and middle-class families who love its unique mix of affordability and urban energy.
Yaba's "Yabacon Valley" tech ecosystem now hosts over 300 startups, including former unicorns like Paystack before its acquisition by Stripe. This has cemented Yaba's reputation as Africa's fastest-growing tech cluster outside South Africa.
What makes Yaba truly special is its dual identity - a place where century-old colonial buildings exist alongside sleek tech hubs, and where bustling traditional markets like Tejuosho operate next to modern co-working spaces.
The area is divided into Yaba West (the tech and educational zone) and Yaba East (mainly residential and commercial). This organization helps residents choose the area that best fits their lifestyle and work needs.
Areas (Card View)
Abule-Ijesha Abule-Oja Alagomeji Adekunle Ebutte-Metta Akoka
Fola Agoro Jibowu Onike Sabo Tejuosho
Recent infrastructure projects, particularly the Lagos Red Line Rail that terminates at Yaba Station, have dramatically improved connectivity. You can now travel from Yaba to Lagos Island in just 12 minutes by train.
With a daytime population swelling to over 500,000 people due to commuters and students, Yaba offers an unmatched urban experience for young professionals and students seeking vibrant, connected living.
Yaba's property market reflects its unique position as Nigeria's tech capital, with prices that balance accessibility with the area's growing importance.
3-Bedroom Apartments
2-Bedroom Flats
Commercial Spaces
Shared Co-Living Pods (New Trend)
Tech-Driven Growth: The proximity to major tech hubs like Co-Creation Hub (CcHub) and Facebook NG_Hub has created a 25% surge in demand for mixed-use properties that combine living and working spaces.
Strong Appreciation: Properties in prime areas like Queen's College environs and Fola Agoro Street are growing in value by 15-18% annually, making them excellent investments.
Co-Living Revolution: The "Yaba Pods" concept caters to young professionals who want affordable, modern living. These shared spaces cost ₦30,000-₦60,000 per month and include utilities, internet, and social areas.
Heritage Renovation: Developers are converting beautiful colonial-era buildings into tech-friendly offices and modern apartments, preserving Yaba's historic character while meeting contemporary needs.
Fola Agoro: This upscale gated community features homes starting from ₦80 million. It's perfect for established professionals and families who want luxury living in the heart of tech country.
McNeil/Sabo: A student-friendly mid-range zone that's popular with UNILAG students and young professionals. Rent is reasonable, and there are plenty of amenities nearby.
Tejuosho/Alagomeji: An affordable family-oriented area that offers good value for money while still providing access to all of Yaba's advantages.
The property market in Yaba offers 8-10% rental yields, making it one of the most profitable areas for property investment in Lagos.
One of Yaba's biggest advantages is how easy it is to travel to other parts of Lagos using different types of transport.
Train Travel: The Yaba Red Line Station connects you to Agege in 18 minutes and Marina in just 12 minutes. This train service has revolutionized commuting for Yaba residents who work on Lagos Island.
Road Networks: Herbert Macaulay Way provides direct links to CMS and the Third Mainland Bridge, while Ikorodu Road serves as the main route to other mainland areas.
Water Transport: Makoko Jetty offers 15-minute ferry rides to Ikoyi, providing a scenic and traffic-free alternative to road travel.
Peak traffic hours are typically 7:30-10 AM on Ikorodu Road and Murtala Muhammed Way. However, Yaba residents have several smart alternatives:
BRT Buses: The Yaba BRT Terminal provides fast, air-conditioned bus services to various parts of Lagos at affordable prices.
E-bike Sharing: With the okada ban enforced in Lagos, e-bike sharing services have become popular for short trips within and around Yaba.
The combination of rail, road, and water transport options makes Yaba one of the most accessible Neighbourhoods in Lagos, regardless of where you work or study.
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