Makoko Fish Market; Best Place to Buy Seafood
Makoko’s fish market is a significant aspect of the local economy. It is a place where fishermen bring their catch to sell, and buyers, including residents, local restaurants, and traders, come to purchase fresh fish and seafood.
The fish market in Makoko provides an essential source of livelihood for the residents and also supplies fish to other parts of Lagos and neighboring areas. It makes a major contribution to the economic activities of Lagos State.
Makoko Fish Market Location; How to get there.
Makoko is located in Yaba Lagos, which is on the coast of Lagos mainland and it’s actually considered to be an illegal settlement. About 300,000 people live in Makoko slum as at July 2023.
Makoko is an informal settlement across the 3rd Mainland Bridge located on the coast of mainland Lagos. A third of the community is built on stilts along the lagoon and the rest is on the land. Makoko fish market is a floating market, and the floating market here is an extraordinary sight, where vendors sell various fish and seafood products from their boats.
Other Seafood and Fish Markets in Lagos
Lagos, is a city with a vibrant seafood and fish market scene. So if you’re looking for where to buy seafood in Nigeria, Lagos is one of the best places to consider. Here are some well-known seafood and fish markets that are very popular in Lagos State;
Epe Fish Market
Epe is a fast developing town on the outskirts of Lagos and is known for its thriving fish market. It offers a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood products. The market is typically busy in the early morning when fishermen bring in their catches.
Owode-Onirin Fish Market
Located in the mainland area of Lagos, Owode-Onirin Fish Market is a major trading hub for fish and other seafood items. It’s a bustling market that operates throughout the day.
Ikoyi Fish Market
Situated in the upscale area of Ikoyi, this market caters to both local residents and restaurants. While it may not be as large as some other markets, it still offers a good selection of fresh seafood.
Oyingbo Market
Oyingbo is a large market that sells a wide range of goods, including fish and seafood. It’s a bustling place where you can find both fresh and dried seafood products.
Ijora Fish Market
This market is well-known for its variety of fish and seafood options. It’s a busy marketplace where traders and customers gather to buy and sell seafood.
Why you must visit Makoko Fish Market if you haven’t.
Visiting the Makoko fish market holds several important aspects:
Cultural Experience: The Makoko fish market offers a unique a cultural experience for both locals and tourists. It provides an opportunity to get acquainted with the local culture, interact with the people of the Makoko community, and witness their traditional ways of fishing and selling fish.
Economic Significance: The fish market plays an important role in the local economy by providing a valuable means of livelihood for many fishermen and fishmongers in the area. It serves as a hub for the trade of fresh fish, which is a significant source of income for the people in the region.
Sustainable Fishing Practices: Going to the Makoko fish market can raise awareness of the importance of sustainable fishing practices. Visitors can witness firsthand of how fishing is carried out, and this exposure may lead to discussions about preserving fish populations and the environment.
Culinary Exploration: For food enthusiasts, the Makoko fish market offers a chance to sample a wide variety of freshly caught seafood and traditional Nigerian dishes. It’s an excellent place to experience local meals and delicacies.
Community Support: Visiting the fish market can also show support for the Makoko community and its residents. The market’s success directly impacts the livelihoods of the local fishermen and traders, contributing to the economy of the area.
Photography and Tourism: The accommodating atmosphere, colorful boats, and crowded activity at the Makoko fish market make it an appealing spot for photographers and tourists seeking to capture authentic snapshots of Nigerian life.
Awareness of Social Challenges: Makoko is known for being an informal settlement built on stilts above the Lagos Lagoon, facing various socio-economic challenges. Visiting the fish market can shed more light on issues related to urban development, housing, and basic infrastructure needs, fostering a broader understanding of such challenges.
