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Wavy the Creator

Wavy the Creator is a Nigerian-born, American-raised multidisciplinary artist. She’s worked as a photographer and videographer and since launching her career in 2017 has transitioned into a full-fledged musician and has recently dropped her debut ep!

Lagos, Nigeria’s capital city and Africa’s 2nd biggest city, is a destination that is teeming with musical and artistic potential. Some of the biggest names of recent years have been born-and-bred Lagosians including but not limited to Wizkid and Olamide. Host to a growing number of musical festivals, Nigeria’s international profile has boomed, defining global soundscapes along the way. In this guide, self-proclaimed ‘citizen of the world’ Wavy will be enlightening us as she shares with us her favourite spots in Lagos, Nigeria. Taking us from the best natural spaces to the best restaurants, this guide is definitely unmissable!

This is probably one of my favorite places to eat, coupled with the fact that it basically gives the vibe of you being in a house based on the variety of “rooms” you can go to.
Their jollof rice, peppered turkey and plantain? Never a miss

This is a new fashion store that appeals to the younger crowd in Nigeria. I first came across them on social media and was very pleased when i went to their online store and saw how well they cater to what the young people like. They have variety of options from shoes, to accessory They recently just opened a store at the Palms mall in Lekki, which is very convenient.

When I heard about Rufus and Bee, a fun house in Lagos, I was excited. The sense of freedom and nostalgia from the experience could make your inner child come alive. It is located in a building with 3 restaurants, a movie theater and an amazing rooftop view.

I feel this is a recreational haven for music and art lovers. It is a strategic site for the country, it was created around a decommissioned prison. From getting an insight into prison life in the 80’s to seeing a sample size of a cell as well as the gallows kind of motivates my process.
You sense immediately the love that transformed this former prison and place of hate and misery of colonial times into a venue where everyone is welcome. The park is beautiful

This bay is the ideal spot for ocean lovers, tourists and unarguably one of the best places to go to and have fun and relax. It’s my go to for the perfect “daycation”.

The main attraction for me was the 400m long canopy walkway (longest in Africa) as it gives a full view of the unique wildlife inhabiting the centre.

My first time at Bogobiri, I felt like I was at a spa in a treehouse. The art and decor are placed together to help you relax. The restaurant, the hotel and the art center make it a hub for everyone. You definitely know I do not miss Thursday’s open mic night.

A fine dining restaurant placed in an eye-catching environment with bamboo structures, use of shapes, contemporary art pieces and lest I forget, a contemporary fashion design store. My friends know it's the luxury Amala for me, to me it’s Amala that went to Yale.

This gallery is arguably the largest of its kind in West Africa with over 8,000 diverse works of art. Getting to see a wealth of artworks and be inspired by the thoughts behind the art. My favorite part of the first experience was how receptive and accommodating it feels once you’re in.

One of the largest markets in the city located in the heart of Lagos island. I enjoy thrifting a lot so this is like thrifting heaven

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Exploring Lagos with Wavy the Creator

Orange Culture

Founder of Orange Culture, Adebayo Oke-Lawal is Lagos born and bread. Born out of his frustrations with hyper-masculinity and the prescribed identities surrounding him, Bayo speaks of Orange Culture as more than a clothing line, but “a movement for a creative class of men."

The first Nigerian brand to showcase at London Collection Men's and be a finalist of the LVMH prize in ’14, Bayo continues to push the boundaries forward for his hometown. From karaoke joints to the best places to escape the chaos, check out his guide to Lagos.

For great breakfast, pop by craft gourmet.

If you want to enjoy an amazing time bouncing - stop by the indoor trampoline park and connect with your inner child.

Fun arcade games, bowling and the option of three different restaurants including one with a rooftop view.

Stop by or order in for great shawarma and fries.

Discover Nigerian contemporary art at its best at Rele in the heart of Lagos.

Catch a beautiful history, beautiful Adire and beautiful conversations with Mama Nike at the Nike Art Gallery. It is truly an experience.

If you want to try delicious suya for the first time, stop by Bukka Hut in the evening.

For super facials, mani peds and relaxing massages, pop by Bnatural in Victoria island, Lagos.

For great spoken word, live bands and delicious food, stop by Bogobiri to enjoy a rich artistic and Afrocentric experience.

If you want to enjoy Nigerian food in a beautiful, architectural space with great vibes stop by NOK. Weekends are great with DJs and bands sometimes hosted while you enjoy great food.

Try the longest bridge walk/canopy walk and also enjoy a nice picnic outside during dry season. Stay hydrated and carry your camera to capture the beautiful experience.

Amazing Japanese food and the option of a beautiful beach view while you sip on a delicious cocktail. Shiro is definitely the spot. At night the music gets really good and you have Hard Rock Cafe in the same compound for a great night out.

Fine dining - this is the place to visit. Steak is amazing.

Lagos with Orange Culture

Vivendii

Modus Vivendii translates to “our way of living” in Latin and was originally formed as a blog showcasing the style of three young Nigerians. They credit Vogue Italia’s late editor-in-chief Franca Sozzani for encouraging the trio to kickstart their brand (they have a t-shirt dedicated to her for their Fall 2017 collection.) Their main aim since transitioning has been to pay homage to their Nigerian roots - “with Vivendii, we want to shine major light on the burgeoning creative scene in Nigeria - especially Lagos," and member Jimmy Ayeni explains, “this in turn, motivates us to put out the highest level of product possible.” 

Today Vivendii can be described as Vogue endorsed street couture that bridges the gap between high fashion and streetwear. These are their top spots in Lagos. 

Family owned gallery started by Ms Nike herself with some of the most amazing paintings, sculptures and other artwork in Lagos. Instagram heaven for all yall social media addicts. Real nice to just have reflective time away from the hustle and just appreciate art. It's fire

One of my favourite places in Lagos to go to. Pick a chilled day to pull up to the market to find amazing artwork, jewellery, painting, models, sculptures, leather products and a bunch of other fire shit. Cultural explosion all available for sale. Come with your bargaining shoes on because none of these cool pieces come without a fight

Exactly what it says it is, a centre promoting the welfare of the environment and its conservation. Monkeys and other animals running around and has Africa's highest foot path over the trees with amazing views. Great time with a bunch of people. Bring some food, drinks and have a picnic in the large open spaces

Amazing Italian/Peruvian (I think) fusion restaurant/chill spot/motel lol. Spot of a vibe and some of my best ideas have come just chilling outside enjoying their sangria. They also have a bakery with some of the best donuts in Lagos NO CAP

An authentic Nigerian beach experience. Pull up with a bunch of friends and enjoy the serenity away from the crazy streets of Lagos. Either go full local and take a banana boat from some of the docks such as Bonny Camp or BICS in Lekki or take a boat/yacht from one of the beach clubs and enjoy the vibe

Shrine is one of the most authentic spots in the city, a celebration of Fela's life and everything he was about. Fire spot you can smoke, drink, eat and watch some amazing performances from artists including his sons, Femi and Seun Kuti

Late food spot open nearly 24/7. Top 3 best chicken wings in the city. After nearly every night at the club, pull up to Maroccaine

Go on the day of exhibitions with great local artists. Get the tequila beer salitos with a slice of lime. SENSATIONAL in the heat. I think it actually tastes better in Lagos. Also, try 16 by 16's twist on zobo, a traditional blackcurrant drink

Nike Art Gallery

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