Best Estates for Raising a Family in Lagos for Diaspora Returnees (2025 Guide)
- Zikan Realtors
- Dec 4, 2025
- 4 min read
If you're a Nigerian in the diaspora planning to relocate—or split your year between abroad and Lagos—the biggest question becomes:
“Where can my family live comfortably, safely, and peacefully in Lagos?”
Not all estates in Lagos are designed with families in mind. Some are overcrowded. Some lack proper infrastructure. Some have poor security or chaotic traffic flow. And others look beautiful online but fail real-life inspection.
This 2025 guide breaks down the best-performing, family-friendly estates in Lagos based on:
Security & controlled access
Road network & drainage
Proximity to schools, malls, hospitals
Stable power supply
Community quality
Title integrity
Long-term value for your family
These are the estates where diaspora returnees feel at home.
1. Lekki Phase 1 — Secure, Central, High Comfort
Lekki Phase 1 remains one of Lagos’ most balanced locations for families.
Why It Works for Diaspora Families
Excellent private schools
Proximity to workplaces (Victoria Island / Ikoyi)
Premium supermarkets & gyms
Multiple clinics & children hospitals
Well-structured gated streets
Top Estates in Lekki Phase 1
Pinnock Beach Estate
The Address Homes (multiple projects)
Friends Colony
Cadogan Estate
Kusenla Axis gated communities
Ideal for: Mid-to-high income families seeking comfort and convenience.
2. Chevron Drive & Orchid — The Diaspora Belt of Lekki
The Chevron–Orchid axis is exploding because it gives Lekki luxury without Lekki stress.
Family Benefits
Very secure
Fully gated clusters
Quiet neighborhoods
Well-managed estates
Access to malls (Shoprite, Blenco, Novare)
Top Estates
Northern Foreshore
Chevron Drive Gated Estate
Victoria Crest Estates
Lagos State Cooperative Estate
Ideal for: Diaspora families seeking modern homes, serviced estates, and strong community living.
3. Ikoyi — Lagos’ Most Exclusive Family Zone
Ikoyi is the closest you will get to European-style urban living.
Family-Friendly Features
Wide roads
Cleanest environment in Lagos
Top-tier international schools
Very low noise level
High security presence
Best Family Estates in Ikoyi
Osborne Phase 1 & 2
Banana Island
Parkview Estate
1004 (premium blocks)
Ideal for: High-income diaspora families or returnees with executive roles.
4. Oniru & VI Annex — For Families Who Want Urban Comfort
Oniru is a favorite for diaspora households because of its balance:
Not too expensive. Not too chaotic. Very central.
Why It’s Family-Friendly
Quick access to VI workplaces
Serviced apartments
Good recreation (Landmark Beach, Twin Waters, malls)
Excellent security
Top Spots
Oniru Private Estate
The Mews
Cabot Estate developments
Ideal for: Young families, digital workers, and frequent travelers.
5. Shonibare Estate, Ikeja GRA — Old Money Peace + Massive Land Sizes
This is where many CEOs, diplomats, and expatriates live.
Family Benefits
Exceptional security
Serene, green environment
Excellent schools (Grange, Maryland schools, Avi-Cenna)
Access to Ikeja City Mall & two airports
Top Estates
Shonibare Estate
Ikeja GRA Private Estates
Maryland Government Reserved Areas
Ideal for: Families seeking long-term stability and quiet upscale living.
6. Magodo GRA Phase 2 — Most Organized Mid-Upper Class Community
Magodo GRA remains one of Lagos’ best-run estates.
Why Diaspora Families Love Magodo
High-level security
Strong resident association
Clean streets
Good playgrounds & sidewalks
Central access to Ikeja, Island, Berger
Top Neighborhoods
Magodo GRA II
CMD Road axis gated communities
Ideal for: Families who want structure + community engagement.
7. Abijo, Sangotedo & Awoyaya — Newer, Modern Diaspora Estates
These areas have become the hotspot for new, affordable luxury estates tailored specifically for diaspora returnees.
Family Benefits
Modern, well-planned estates
Good road network
Proximity to Shoprite, schools & hospitals
Lower cost but high appreciation
Best Estates
The Address Homes (Abijo)
Emperor Estate
Crown Estate Phase 2
Excellent for mid-income diaspora families building long-term wealth.
8. Epe — Future-Focused Family Estates (2025–2030 Growth Zone)
If you’re thinking 5–10 years ahead, Epe gives you:
Peace
Government infrastructure
Excellent road expansion
High appreciation
New Lagos masterplan projects
Top Family Estates in Epe
Isimi Lagos (premium eco-estate)
Dukia Africa
Oke-Osho gated communities
Future City Epe
Best for diaspora families planning future relocation or generational wealth.
Which Should You Choose as a Diaspora Returnee?
If you want luxury + prestige:
Ikoyi, Oniru, Lekki Phase 1
If you want calm + community:
Magodo GRA, Shonibare, Ikeja GRA
If you want modern + affordable luxury:
Chevron Drive, Abijo, Orchid Road
If you want long-term wealth + future relocation:
Epe, Ibeju-Lekki, Ibusa (Asaba shortlets)
Final Advice
When choosing a family estate as a diaspora returnee:
✔ Visit in person (December is perfect)
✔ Work with a trusted consultant—NOT random agents
✔ Confirm title before falling in love with any house
✔ Prioritize safety, schooling, and access roads
✔ Ask about association dues, maintenance culture & power supply
Living in Lagos should feel safe, organized, and peaceful—and these estates give you exactly that.
🏢 Zikan Prop Solutions
🥇 Certified Real Estate Consultant | Multi Award-Winning Realtor
Helping you make the best real estate purchase & investment decisions.
📱 +234 703 000 3514
📲 IG: @zikanpropsolutions
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