Best Train Stations In Lagos

As regards overall quality, the Mobolaji Johnson Station in Ebute Metta, Lagos, is one of the best train stations in Lagos. It is a model of what a modern train station should be!

Lagos, Nigeria hosts several key train stations that are critical to the city’s transportation network. These stations not only facilitate the movement of thousands of passengers daily but also play a vital role in the economic dynamics of the region. 

Navigating Lagos can be quite an adventure, especially for those unfamiliar with its vibrant streets. Whether you’re embarking on a day trip to explore neighboring states or simply seeking a convenient way to traverse the city, the Lagos State train system has got you covered. 

Below are some of the best train stations in Lagos, known for their strategic importance, facilities, connectivity, and overall user experience.

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11 Best Train Stations In Lagos

1. Mobolaji Johnson Train Station (Ebute Metta)

Mobolaji Johnson Station (Ebute Metta Station): Formerly known as Ebute Metta Station, this station is a major hub in the Lagos rail network, especially after renaming to honor Mobolaji Johnson. 

It serves as a key junction point on the Lagos-Ibadan railway line, one of the most significant railway projects in West Africa.

This modern railway service, which began full operations on June 15, 2021, connects Nigeria’s bustling economic center, Lagos, with the southwest industrial city of Ibadan.

Mobolaji Johnson Train Station is the largest railway station in West Africa, boasting a capacity of 6,000 passengers. It’s the flagship station for the Lagos-Ibadan standard gauge railway line, the first double-track line in the region.

The station offers a modern and spacious environment with amenities like ticketing offices, waiting areas, and restrooms. A friend of mine described the station environment as “E go be like say you dey Tokyo” (It will feel like you’re in Tokyo).

2. Iddo Terminus (Lagos Island)

Iddo Train Station is one of the oldest yet major train stations in Lagos. It acts as a pivotal terminal for both intra-city and intercity trains. It connects several railway lines, serving as a gateway for passengers traveling to northern Nigeria and other parts of the country. 

This historic station is the terminus for the Lagos Suburban Railway, which serves the Lagos metropolitan area. It offers connections to other stations, such as Agege, Yaba, and Oshodi.

Iddo Terminus is a designated National Monument offering a blend of historical significance and modern functionality. Passengers can access ticketing services, waiting areas, and restrooms.

The Iddo Terminus has a smaller capacity and might feel less spacious compared to Mobolaji Johnson, especially during rush hour. Despite its historical significance, efforts have been made to modernize the Iddo Station with improved facilities and better services.

3. Babatunde Raji Fashola Train Station (Agege Train Station)

Agege Train Station was renamed to Babatunde Fashola train station, an ex-governor of Lagos State, to honor him. 

It is located in one of Lagos’s densely populated areas. It is essential for the city’s suburban rail services and caters to a large number of passengers, offering them access to major commercial and residential areas. 

The station is known for its accessibility and significantly reduces road traffic congestion by providing an efficient alternative mode of transportation.

The Babatunde Fashola Station stands as a vital transportation hub in Lagos State. As part of the Lagos Redline Metro Rail Project, it plays a pivotal role in connecting travelers to various destinations. 

Nearby landmarks include the Agege Stadium and the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).

4. National Theatre Station (Lagos Island)

As part of the Blue Line of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit, the National Theatre Station provides easy access to the iconic National Theatre and surrounding entertainment hubs. 

It’s located right by the National Theatre. The station itself was pretty spacious and modern. It wasn’t too crowded on the day I went, but there were definitely enough people around. Stepping into the theater felt like stepping into a museum; it was a positive experience. 

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to get around Lagos, I highly recommend checking it out! It is one of the best train stations, plus it is a great way to get around the city without having to deal with traffic. 

This station offers a convenient location for cultural exploration alongside essential amenities like ticketing booths, waiting areas, and restrooms. 

5. Mushin Train Station

The Mushin Train Station is another key stop in Lagos. It is close to the Mushin market, which makes it easy for commuters to get to the market. 

As part of the Lagos Redline Metro Rail Project, it connects travelers to Agbado, Iju, Ikeja, Oshodi, Yaba, and Oyingbo. Nearby landmarks include the bustling Mushin Market and the iconic National Theatre. 

6. Apapa Train Station

Apapa Train Station is one of the best train stations in Lagos. It is strategically important due to its proximity to the Apapa Port, one of the largest and busiest seaports in Nigeria. 

The station supports logistics and freight transportation, providing a vital link between the port and inland destinations. For passengers, it offers convenient access to one of Lagos’s key industrial and commercial districts, making it a hub for freight and commuter rail services.

7. Ikeja Train Station

Ikeja Train Station is near the Ikeja airport and the Ikeja Bus Terminal. Thus, you can quickly get to the airport or Ikeja Bus/stop from the train station. 

Ikeja Train station is a central point for the Lagos Blue Line Metro Rail Project, connecting Marina to Okokomaiko. The station has been revitalized with modern amenities, sleek architecture, and efficient facilities.

Inside Ikeja Train Station, there’s a waiting area for passengers, high-tech ticket counters, and other accessibility features. 

Personally, using the Ikeja Train Station has significantly impacted my daily movement. It offers a faster and more reliable alternative to the often gridlocked road traffic. The station’s proximity to the Ikeja City Mall and the Murtala Muhammed International Airport makes it an excellent starting point for local shopping trips and extended travel. 

The convenience of hopping on a train that bypasses the chaotic Lagos traffic cannot be overstated. This accessibility and efficiency have made it my preferred choice for travel within the city, especially during rush hours.

8. Marina Train Station

Marina Train Station, situated in the heart of Lagos Island, serves as a vital link within the Lagos Rail Mass Transit network, specifically designed to support the burgeoning transportation needs of Nigeria’s most populous city. 

As a cornerstone of the Blue Line project, the station facilitates an essential connection between the Island and the Mainland, targeting to ease the perennial traffic snarls that characterize Lagos’ major roads. 

From a friend’s review, he said “Marina Train Station has transformed how I and many others travel within Lagos. The convenience it offers, especially during peak hours, is remarkable. 

Before its existence, getting to Lagos Island could be a grueling ordeal, often involving lengthy delays and unpredictable schedules. Now, the journey is quicker, more predictable, and more comfortable, thanks to well-maintained facilities and regular service intervals”. 

For someone who frequents the business districts on the island, the station provides a reliable alternative to road transport, helps cut down travel time, and allows for a more productive and less stressful day.

9. Oyingbo Train Station

Oyingbo Train Station is one of the best train stations in Lagos. It is situated in the Oyingbo district of Lagos, Nigeria, and plays a crucial role in the city’s railway network, particularly under the Lagos Rail Mass Transit initiative. 

This station serves as a critical juncture connecting the Mainland to the Island parts of Lagos, enhancing the ease of transit for thousands of daily commuters.

It was designed to reduce road congestion and promote more efficient urban mobility. 

The station’s location allows easy access to key areas in Lagos, such as markets and commercial hubs, which are essential for many locals’ daily activities. This has not only significantly shortened travel times but also reduced the usual hassle associated with public transport in Lagos, making it a preferred choice for many, including those who commute daily for work or education.

10. Oshodi Train Station

Oshodi Train Station is a key transit hub that interlinks various modes of transportation, including buses, taxis, and trains. This integration is intended to streamline the flow of commuters and goods through one of Lagos’s most densely populated and commercially active districts. 

As part of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit project, Oshodi Train Station not only eases the notorious traffic congestion in Lagos but also fosters economic opportunities by improving access to the city’s main commercial centers. 

The modern design includes multiple platforms and tracks to accommodate the Lagos Blue and Red rail lines, facilitating an efficient connection between the Mainland and the Island sections of Lagos. 

11. Yaba Train Station

Yaba Train Station is a part of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit system and aims to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance public transportation options in one of Africa’s largest cities. 

The station’s location offers easy access to various educational and technological hubs, including the University of Lagos and the Yaba College of Technology, making it a vital transit point for students. 

For residents like me, who navigate daily through the streets of Lagos, the station has transformed commuting experiences, providing a faster, safer, and more comfortable alternative to the traditional road transport chaos that has long defined the city’s transport landscape.

These best train stations represent Lagos’s commitment to sustainable urban development, efficient transportation, and a brighter future. 

These stations are integral to Lagos’s efforts to improve public transportation, enhance connectivity, and support economic growth. 

Through ongoing investments in infrastructure and technology, Lagos aims to further elevate the standards of its train stations, ensuring they meet the needs of a growing population and an expanding economy.

A Guide on Choosing the Best Train Stations For Your Maximum Experience 

The “best” station depends on your specific needs and travel preferences. Here’s a quick guide:

1. For Intercity Travel To Ibadan: Mobolaji Johnson is the ideal choice. 

This train station boasts modern, air-conditioned trains equipped with comfortable seating. You’ll have ample legroom and a smooth ride throughout your journey.

As the train glides through lush landscapes, you’ll have nice views of green fields and charming villages. Keep your camera ready! You can also relax and enjoy the ride without any worries.

The train journey provides an opportunity to connect with fellow passengers. Strike up conversations, share stories, and make new friends.

At each station stopover, you’ll catch glimpses of local life. From vendors selling snacks to families waiting to board, it’s a microcosm of Nigerian culture.

2. To explore Lagos’s history and culture: opt for Iddo Terminus or National Theatre Station.

For example, the National Theatre of Nigeria has one of the best train stations in Lagos. It is located in Iganmu, Surulere, and stands tall as a beacon of arts and culture. 

It was completed in 1976 in preparation for the Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC) in 1977.

It covers an area of about 23,000 square meters, and standing over 31 meters tall, this multipurpose edifice is a testament to Nigeria’s artistic heritage.

What It Offers:

• Stage Performances: The National Theatre hosts captivating stage performances, from plays to musicals.
• Film Shows: Enjoy cinematic experiences in its well-equipped halls.
• Art Exhibitions: Explore Nigerian creativity through art exhibitions.
• Cultural Shows: Witness the vibrancy of Nigerian culture.
• Conferences and Meetings: A hub for intellectual exchange.
• Indoor Sports: Play table tennis, wrestle, or box within its walls.

The National Theatre is more than a venue; it’s the NATIONAL HOME OF ENTERTAINMENT. Its facilities have been meticulously designed to accommodate diverse events.

From historic gatherings to live theatre arts, this space buzzes with creativity.

3. For easy access to the Lagos metropolitan area: consider any station along the functional blue or red lines.

As the train glides, you get to see high-rises, markets, glimpses of the lagoon. It’s generally a visual overture! 

Observe fellow passengers, their expressions, and their conversations. Start up a discussion, and you might have a new friend from there. 

About the Red Line Train System in Lagos

The Red Line metro rail in Lagos, Nigeria, is an ambitious project led by First Metro Infrastructure Limited (FMIL) in collaboration with the Lagos State Government. Its goal is to revolutionize transportation in the city by addressing issues like traffic congestion and inadequate transportation options.

The Red Line spans 37 kilometers from Agbado (Ogun State) to Marina (Lagos). It features fourteen stations strategically placed along the route, some of which are the best train stations in Lagos:

• Agbado
• Iju
• Agege
• Ikeja
• MMIA International Airport
• MMIA Domestic Airport
• Oshodi
• Mushin
• Yaba
• Oyingbo
• Ebute Metta
• Iddo
• Ebute Ero
• Marina

The Red Line aims to provide a modern and efficient rail system for Lagos’ growing population.

The rail system will offer reliable and sustainable transportation, reducing road congestion and promoting eco-friendly mobility.

About the Blue Line Train System in Lagos

The Blue Line is an electric rapid transit line in Lagos, Nigeria. It is part of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit system managed by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA).

The Blue Line spans 13 kilometers from Okokomaiko to Lagos Marina.

It currently has five operational stations:

• Okokomaiko
• LASU
• Volkswagen
• Trade Fair
• Alakija

The Blue Line operates on an electric third rail system. It connects key areas such as Iddo, National Theatre, and Iganmu.

The line is designed to provide efficient and reliable transportation for commuters. The Blue Line aims to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance mobility.

In its first phase, it is expected to transport 250,000 passengers daily.

Upon completion, the entire 27-kilometer route will serve approximately 500,000 passengers daily.

Faqs

What are the ticket prices for the Lagos to Ibadan train route?

• First Class: ₦9,000
• Business Class: ₦6,500
• Standard (Adult): ₦3,600
• Standard (Minor): ₦3,000

What are the ticket prices for the Lagos to Abeokuta train route?

• First Class: ₦6,000
• Business Class: ₦4,500
• Standard (Adult): ₦3,000
• Standard (Minor): ₦2,000

What is the full schedule for the Lagos to Abeokuta to Ibadan trips?

Weekdays (Morning Trip), Saturdays (Morning Trip), and Sundays (Morning Trip):

• Departure from Mobolaji Johnson Station, Alagomeji: 8:00 am
• Stops at Babatunde Raji Fashola Station, Agege: 8:28 am
• Stops at Wole Soyinka Station, Abeokuta: 9:43 am
• Stops at Samuel Ladoke Akintola Station, Omi-Adio: 10:26 am
• Final stop at Obafemi Awolowo Station, Moniya: 10:47 am

Weekdays (Afternoon Trip), Saturdays (Afternoon Trip), and Sunday (Afternoon Trip):

• Departure from Mobolaji Johnson Station, Alagomeji: 4:00 pm
• Stops at Babatunde Raji Fashola Station, Agege: 4:28 am
• Stops at Wole Soyinka Station, Abeokuta: 5:43 am
• Stops at Samuel Ladoke Akintola Station, Omi-Adio: 6:26 am
• Final stop at Obafemi Awolowo Station, Moniya: 6:47 pm

What is the difference between Lagos’s Red Line and Blue Line train systems?

Route: The Red Line spans 37 kilometers from Agbado in Ogun State to Oyingbo in Lagos, while The Blue Line covers 27 kilometers, connecting Okokomaiko to Marina.

Transmission: Red Line uses a diesel-powered system known as Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU). Blue Line operates on an electric third rail system.

Stations: It comprises some of the best train stations in Lagos. Notable stations for the Red Line include Agbado, Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Oshodi, Mushin, Yaba, and Oyingbo.

Operational stations for the Blue line system include Okokomaiko, LASU, Volkswagen, Trade Fair, and Alakija. 

Is there a train system from Lagos to Abuja?

Currently, there is no direct train connection between Lagos and Abuja. However, you have two options:

• Abuja-Ibadan Railway: Connects Abuja and Ibadan.
• Ibadan-Abuja Railway: Links Ibadan and Abuja.

It means you’ll have to get to Ibadan from Lagos before taking the Ibadan-Abuja railway route.

Conclusion 

Lagos is undergoing significant development in its rail network. New lines and stations are planned to improve connectivity within the city and surrounding areas. It will undoubtedly present even more options for train travel in Lagos.

Whether you’re a commuter looking for a quick and efficient way to get around or a tourist seeking a unique travel experience, Lagos’s best train stations have you covered. I hope this article has given you some insight into the best Lagos offers in terms of train travel.

So ditch the car woes and choked streets! Lagos’ train stations are transforming the city into a breeze to navigate!