Banana Island, Ikoyi, Lagos Area Guide
What comes to mind when you think of Banana Island? Luxurious? Exclusive? Elite? If yes, you’re on the right track. This man-made island, nestled in the Ikoyi axis of Lagos, is a prime location for the crème de la crème of society. It is renowned for its serene environment, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and high-profile residents
Situated in the Lagos Lagoon, Banana Island offers a location that is accessible via a dedicated road from Ikoyi, ensuring residents can enjoy a peaceful retreat while remaining connected to the busy life in Lagos. The strategic location provides easy access to key areas such as Victoria Island, Lekki, and the mainland, making it ideal for those seeking both convenience and exclusivity.
History Of Banana Island, Ikoyi,Lagos
Banana Island, a product of meticulous planning and development, was conceived as a symbol of modernity and luxury.
Named for its distinct banana-like shape, the island was developed by the Lebanese-Nigerian Chagoury Group in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing. The island’s construction involved extensive land reclamation, transforming it into a 1.6 million square meters urban paradise.
To buy or rent a property in this area, call/text Krent at +234 911 800 8008.
Popular Roads in Banana Island
Navigating Banana Island and its surrounding areas reveals a network of well-designed roads that enhance accessibility and convenience for residents. Here are some of the most notable roads in and around Banana Island:
1. Banana Island Road
The main artery of Banana Island, this road serves as the primary entry and exit point. It is well-paved and lined with lush greenery, offering a scenic drive into the heart of the island. This road connects to various residential streets and amenities within the island, making it the backbone of the area’s infrastructure.
2. Oju Olobun Close
Located in the neighboring Ikoyi area, Oju Olobun Close is a significant road that connects to the access road leading into Banana Island. It is lined with upscale residential buildings and offers easy connectivity to various parts of Ikoyi and Victoria Island.
3. Bourdillon Road
Bourdillon Road, situated in Ikoyi, is one of the most prestigious roads in Lagos. It connects to the road leading into Banana Island and is home to several high-profile residences, consulates, and luxury apartments. The road is known for its serene environment and well-maintained infrastructure
4. Gerrard Road
Gerrard Road is a prominent road in Ikoyi, leading towards the access road to Banana Island. It features a mix of residential and commercial properties, including luxury apartments, office buildings, and shopping centers. The road is well-known for its busy atmosphere and accessibility.
5. Alfred Rewane Road
Formerly known as Kingsway Road, Alfred Rewane Road is a major commercial and residential road in Ikoyi that connects to the access routes leading to Banana Island. The road is bustling with activity, featuring corporate offices, retail outlets, and dining establishments.
6. Osborne Road
Osborne Road runs parallel to the Lagoon and is a significant route for accessing Banana Island from Ikoyi. It is a major thoroughfare with a mix of residential estates, commercial buildings, and recreational facilities. The road’s strategic location makes it a crucial link for residents and visitors alike.
Housing in Banana Island
Banana Island, a prestigious residential area in Lagos, Nigeria, offers a variety of luxurious housing options that cater to the elite. The island is renowned for its meticulously planned layout and state-of-the-art infrastructure, making it one of the most sought-after addresses in the country. Here’s a detailed look at the different types of houses available on Banana Island:
Residential Properties
1.Detached Houses
Detached houses in Banana Island are the epitome of luxury and privacy. These standalone properties typically come with spacious plots, allowing for expansive gardens, private pools, and additional amenities such as tennis courts and private gyms. The architecture of detached houses ranges from contemporary designs to more classical styles, ensuring that each home is unique.
2. Semi-Detached Houses
Semi-detached houses on Banana Island share a common wall with the neighboring house, providing a balance between space and community living. These homes offer many of the luxuries found in detached houses but are slightly more affordable.
3. Terraced Houses
Terraced houses, also known as townhouses, are a popular choice for those seeking luxury living in a community setting. These properties are built in rows, with each unit sharing walls with its neighbors on both sides.
Features include: Multiple floors, shared walls with neighboring units, private terraces, communal gardens, and access to shared amenities.
4. Luxury Apartments
Luxury apartments in Banana Island are designed to offer high-end living with less maintenance compared to standalone houses. These apartments often feature stunning views of the Lagos Lagoon and are located within secure, multi-story buildings.
5. Condominiums
Condominiums, or condos, are a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle with less maintenance compared to standalone houses. These residential units are typically part of larger buildings with multiple floors and shared amenities.
Features include: Modern and spacious living areas, high-end finishes, 24/7 security, access to communal facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, parking spaces, and landscaped gardens. Some condos also offer stunning views of the Lagos Lagoon and the cityscape.
Commercial Properties
Lakepoint Towers
Lakepoint Towers, situated along 4th Avenue in Banana Island, Ikoyi, Lagos, represents a prestigious office development comprising two striking towers. Completed in 2016, this development offers approximately 14,000 square meters of Grade A office space. What sets Lakepoint Towers apart is its rooftop garden, providing panoramic views of the iconic Lagos Lagoon, enhancing the work environment with a blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication.
Located within Banana Island’s Mixed Development Zone, Lakepoint Towers shares its neighborhood with other notable high-rise structures like Ocean Parade, Bella Vista, and Adunola House.
Airtel Office:
Airtel, a leading telecommunications company in Nigeria, maintains a strategic office on Banana Island. This office serves as a key operational hub for Airtel’s business operations, housing departments such as customer service, sales, and corporate affairs.
Popular Estates and Gated Communities:
Ocean Parade Towers
Ocean Parade Towers is a landmark estate on Banana Island. Comprising 14 luxury tower blocks, the estate offers panoramic views of the Lagos Lagoon. Residents enjoy access to exclusive leisure facilities, including a private health club, tennis courts, a golf course, squash courts, and a swimming pool surrounded by extensive gardens.
The architectural design and state-of-the-art amenities make it a prime residential choice for high-net-worth individuals.
Bella Vista Towers
Bella Vista Towers is another high-end residential estate on Banana Island, featuring luxury apartments and penthouses. The estate offers a blend of modern architecture and elegant interior design, with facilities such as a swimming pool, gym, and recreational areas. Bella Vista Towers is known for its serene environment and secure living conditions, catering to the elite
Giuliano de Medici
Giuliano de Medici, developed by Sujimoto, is one of Banana Island’s most impressive residential buildings. Inspired by the 14th-century co-ruler of Florence, Giuliano de’ Medici, the design exudes a blend of historical elegance and modern luxury.
The development includes eight 5-bedroom luxury terrace apartments and two exquisite penthouses. Each unit features a three-car garage, a private cinema, and access to a general pool. The Giuliano’s opulent design and amenities have attracted high-profile residents, including Nigerian music star Davido, who purchased a unit in 2020.
Echina Court
Echina Court redefines typical apartment living with its unique architectural charm. This development features various apartment units, including 2, 3, and 4-bedroom options, each offering stunning views of beautifully landscaped gardens.
Echina Court adds a new dimension to the architectural landscape of Banana Island, blending elements reminiscent of Victorian architecture and 14th-century France. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail, creating a sense of timeless elegance.
Residents of Echina Court enjoy access to a common pool area, perfect for relaxation and social gatherings. Apartments here range from 19 million to 24 million naira per annum for rent, reflecting their desirability and premium features.
Lucrezia by Sujimoto
Lucrezia by Sujimoto stands out as the tallest residential building in Banana Island. This luxurious 14-storey high-rise features 16 maisonettes and 2 penthouses, making it a beacon of modern elegance. Notably, it is the first building in the area to boast a Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) façade, adding to its distinctiveness.
Designed as a trailblazer in Africa’s most prestigious real estate market, Lucrezia offers a combination of 4-bedroom maisonettes and 2 BQs (boys’ quarters). Its architectural innovation and premium amenities make it a landmark of luxury and sophistication in Banana Island.
Education and Schools in Banana Island
Banana Island in Lagos is known not only for its luxurious residential properties and exclusive lifestyle but also for its top-tier educational institutions. These schools provide high-quality education, often following international curricula, to cater to the diverse and discerning population of the area.
Banana Island International School
Banana Island International School (BIIS) is a co-educational day school that offers the British national curriculum. It caters to children aged 15 months to 13 years and emphasizes a balanced approach to education. The school focuses on academic excellence, sporting activities, and community service.
Le Poshe School
Le Poshe School, located in Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos, is a prestigious nursery and primary school known for its commitment to providing high-quality education and care. The school offers a nurturing and stimulating environment aimed at fostering the holistic development of children from a young age.
Heritage House School
Heritage House School, located on Cameron Road in Ikoyi, Lagos, is renowned for its Montessori-based educational approach. The school caters to children from 3 months to 11 years old, providing a nurturing environment that focuses on both academic and moral development. The Montessori method emphasizes child-led learning, allowing children to explore and learn at their own pace with guidance from certified Montessori tutors.
Healthcare Facilities in Banana Island
Banana Island is known not just for its upscale residential and commercial properties, but also for its top-notch healthcare facilities. The healthcare infrastructure here ensures residents have access to quality medical care, with several prominent hospitals and medical centers located either within or near the island.
Lagoon Hospitals
Lagoon Hospitals, a part of the Hygeia Group, is one of the premier private healthcare providers in Lagos. The hospital has multiple branches, with the closest to Banana Island being the one in Ikoyi. Lagoon Hospitals offer a comprehensive range of medical services, including general medicine, surgery, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, and emergency care.
They are well-equipped with modern medical technologies and have highly trained medical professionals. The hospital is renowned for its patient-centered care and commitment to high standards in medical practice.
Paelon Memorial Hospital
Located in Victoria Island, Paelon Memorial Hospital is another top-tier healthcare facility easily accessible from Banana Island. This hospital is well-known for its family medicine, offering personalized care and a wide array of medical services.
Paelon Memorial focuses on preventive care, wellness, and chronic disease management, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive healthcare.
First Cardiology Consultants
First Cardiology Consultants, located in Ikoyi, is a specialized medical center focusing on cardiovascular health. It offers a range of services including diagnostic testing, treatment, and management of heart diseases.
The center is staffed by expert cardiologists and equipped with advanced technology for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of cardiac conditions. This facility is highly regarded for its specialized care and advanced medical interventions in cardiology.
Shopping Malls in Banana Island
Banana Island, while primarily known for its luxurious residences and serene environment, also boasts a selection of premium shopping destinations. These shopping centers cater to the discerning tastes of the island’s residents, offering a range of products and services that enhance the quality of life.
Here’s a closer look at some of the notable shopping malls and supermarkets in and around Banana Island:
Oladimeji Shonubi Supermarket
Oladimeji Shonubi Supermarket is a well-known establishment on Banana Island, offering a wide array of grocery items, household essentials, and specialty products. The supermarket is renowned for its high-quality goods, excellent customer service, and convenient location. Shoppers can find everything from fresh produce to imported delicacies, making it a one-stop-shop for residents.
Spar Nigeria
Spar Nigeria, located in the nearby Ikoyi area, is a popular shopping destination for Banana Island residents. This large supermarket chain offers a good selection of groceries, electronics, clothing, and home goods. Spar is known for its competitive prices and frequent promotions, providing value for money while ensuring quality.
Ikoyi Shopping Complex
The Ikoyi Shopping Complex is a convenient shopping destination close to Banana Island. It hosts a variety of retail stores, boutiques, and service providers, including dry cleaners, salons, and pharmacies. The complex’s central location and diverse offerings make it a practical choice for everyday shopping needs.
Things to Do in Banana Island
Banana Island offers an array of activities for residents and visitors alike.
Visit YouFine Art Arena
Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the YouFine Art Arena, where contemporary African art is showcased. This gallery features rotating exhibitions, offering a glimpse into the rich and diverse artistic expressions from across the continent.
Engage in Sports at Banana Island Sports Field
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the Banana Island Sports Field is an excellent spot for various sports. Whether it’s a game of soccer, tennis, or just a morning jog, the well-maintained facilities provide a perfect setting for physical activities.
Enjoy a Night Out at Quilox
Quilox, one of Lagos’ most famous nightclubs, offers an exciting nightlife experience. With top DJs, a lively atmosphere, and an exclusive setting, it’s a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a night out with friends.
Bowling at Fun Factory
Just a short drive from Banana Island, Fun Factory offers an entertaining bowling alley. It’s a great place for families and friends to enjoy some friendly competition and fun times.
Experience Fine Dining at Café Neo
Café Neo offers a sophisticated dining experience with a range of gourmet dishes and exquisite beverages. It’s a perfect spot for brunch or a quiet dinner, providing a cozy and elegant ambiance.
Relax at the Exclusive Banana Island Club
The Banana Island Club offers various recreational facilities, including a swimming pool, gym, and spa. It’s an exclusive venue where members can relax and socialize in a luxurious setting.
FAQs
Can anybody enter Banana Island?
No, Banana Island is a highly exclusive and secure area. Entry is restricted, and access is typically granted only to residents, their guests, and authorized personnel. The island features gated entry points with stringent security checks to maintain the privacy and safety of its inhabitants.
Why is Banana Island expensive?
Banana Island is expensive due to its prime location, exclusive community, and luxurious amenities. Situated in Ikoyi, Lagos, it is one of the most prestigious addresses in Nigeria. The island offers top-tier infrastructure, including well-maintained roads, reliable utilities, and high-end facilities.
Which people live on Banana Island?
Banana Island is home to Nigeria’s elite, including business magnates, celebrities, politicians, and expatriates.
How much is a plot of land in Banana Island in Nigeria? Conclusion
As of the most recent data, a plot of land in Banana Island can cost anywhere from ₦400 million to ₦1 billion or more, depending on the location and size of the plot. Prices have been steadily rising due to the limited availability and high demand for real estate in this area.
Available Properties in Banana Island
Conclusion
Banana Island stands as a portrayal of luxury and sophistication in Lagos. Its blend of exclusivity, top-tier amenities, and strategic location makes it a coveted address for the elite. If you seek a serene residential haven or a prime investment opportunity, Banana Island delivers on all fronts.
