Agege Market, a major commercial hub in Lagos State, remains central to the daily lives and economic survival of thousands of traders, who navigate challenges and opportunities from dawn till dusk.
Located near Pen Cinema in the Agege Local Government Area, the market serves as both a workplace and community centre for families across the region.
Traders describe the market as the “heartbeat” of local life, a place where commerce, culture and social interaction converge.
Activity begins early in the morning, with women bringing baskets of vegetables from nearby farms and men unloading trucks laden with foodstuffs. The market’s narrow alleys fill with bargaining, greetings and prayers as commerce unfolds.
Long-time vegetable seller Mrs. Yetunde Lawal, known locally as “Mama Risi,” said Agege Market is like a second home where she has worked for over 20 years.
“This is where we earn, where we meet people, and where our children grow up,” she said, highlighting the market’s social as well as economic importance.
Young traders also see the market as a platform for growth. Mr. Ayodeji Adegbite, who sells shoes, recounted starting with just a table before moving into a rented shop, noting that while progress is possible, infrastructure shortfalls, including irregular electricity and poor waste management, hinder business operations.
Other traders emphasised environmental and security concerns. Mrs. Kehinde Ojo, a fabrics seller, said dirty surroundings deter customers and called for improved drainage and sanitation.
Mr. Ibrahim Abdulrahman, a meat seller, welcomed recent street lighting introduced by the local council, saying it has enhanced safety and extended trading hours.
Agege Market is more than a site of commerce; it is a cultural melting pot, traders noted. Vendors from Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa and other backgrounds coexist, bringing diverse products and traditions that enrich the market’s character.
Mrs. Chinelo Okafor, who sells household items, described traders as “one big family,” resolving disputes internally and depending on each other for support.
The Iyaloja of Orile Agege, Mrs. Bola Orelaru, stressed the pivotal role of women in sustaining the market, saying, “Our strength is in cooperation. We organise ourselves, resolve disputes and support members in times of need.”
Traders balance work with family life, often bringing children to help with sales or complete homework near stalls. Mrs. Mariam Ilesanmi noted that such involvement doubles as informal education, teaching practical life skills.
Despite persistent challenges, Agege Market traders maintain optimism. Some contribute directly to local upkeep and advocate for stronger engagement with Agege Local Government’s urban renewal agenda to address infrastructure deficiencies.
“We want government to listen to us directly, we know the problems because we live with them daily,” said Mrs. Bukunmi Olayinka, a boutique owner.
For residents, Agege Market is not only an economic engine but also a community nexus where relationships are forged, news is shared and collective identity is reinforced. The daily rhythm of the market continues to reflect the resilience and determination of its traders, sustaining livelihoods and shaping urban life in Lagos.
