When Ayo got transferred from the mainland to Lekki for work, his initial reaction was dread. The thought of moving closer to the Island’s high-end chaos didn’t sit well with him. “Everything is expensive there,” he muttered. But the real issue was finding a community that balanced affordability, access, and peace of mind. That was until he discovered Badore.

Tucked in the south-eastern part of Eti-Osa Local Government Area, Badore is one of those places that don’t often make flashy headlines, but quietly hold their own charm. If you’ve ever searched for a serene environment within reach of Lekki Phase 1 and Ajah without the overwhelming cost of Ikoyi or Victoria Island, then this might be exactly what you need to know about Badore, Lagos.

Location and Access

Badore sits just after Ajah. If you’re familiar with the popular Abraham Adesanya roundabout, a right turn takes you straight into the road leading to Badore. It’s not a long stretch, but it’s enough to create a shift—from the hustle of Ajah to the calm of a more laid-back suburb.

It’s accessible through the Lekki-Epe Expressway, and though traffic can be a pain during peak hours, the road into Badore itself is usually less stressful. Over the years, government and private efforts have led to improved road networks within the area, although occasional potholes remind you you’re still in Lagos.

A Residential Gem with Growing Appeal

Badore has grown quietly. While it doesn’t have the high-rise apartments of Ikate or the designer rooftops of Chevron Drive, it offers something rare—affordable housing within the Island corridor. Many of the homes are bungalows, duplexes, and mini-estates built by individual developers. You’ll also find gated communities, some with security personnel and shared amenities like boreholes and mini transformers.

This is one reason why working-class folks, middle-income families, and even retirees find Badore appealing. You can still rent a decent 2-bedroom flat at a rate that won’t force you to sell your car. And if you’re looking to buy land, there are still pockets of plots available at relatively moderate prices compared to other parts of Lekki.

Community and Lifestyle

One of the first things you’ll notice in Badore is its relatively calm atmosphere. It doesn’t carry the noise pollution of busier Island areas. There’s a healthy blend of old and new residents—people who have lived there for over 15 years, alongside newcomers seeking peaceful living.

The community isn’t overly flashy, but it’s friendly. Street shops sell everything from fresh vegetables to recharge cards. Tailors still sit by the roadside, and there are the usual mama-put joints serving piping-hot jollof rice and pepper soup. For bigger shopping runs, residents often head to Ajah Market or the Sangotedo Novare Mall, which isn’t too far off.

There are churches, mosques, schools, and small business hubs scattered around the area. Private schools and nursery centers cater to young families, while a few tutorial centers and skills academies offer alternatives for young adults. Life here is slow-paced but progressive.

Water, Light, and Infrastructure

Let’s be real—like many parts of Lagos, Badore still deals with some of the usual infrastructural headaches. Water supply is largely borehole-dependent. Most homes have overhead tanks and pumping machines to support daily needs. The tap water isn’t always clean, so people often boil their water or buy sachets and bottled alternatives.

Electricity supply is fair by Lagos standards. It’s not perfect, but it’s decent enough that most residents don’t run generators 24/7. In some parts, private transformer arrangements by estates have helped improve power supply. Still, don’t throw away your generator or inverter dreams just yet.

Drainage is a mixed story. Some streets have well-channeled drainage systems, while others can get waterlogged during heavy rains. That said, residents and landlords have gradually stepped in to improve conditions, especially in more developed mini-estates.

The Jetty and Transport Perks

Now, here’s one thing that makes Badore quite unique—its jetty. Yes, Badore has a functional jetty that connects commuters to Ijede, Ikorodu, and other parts of Lagos via water transport. For some residents, this is a time-saver during rush hours. It also offers a scenic alternative for those who enjoy boat rides or need to cut down commute time.

Although not as bustling as the CMS-Ikorodu water route, it holds promise, especially as Lagos continues to push for multi-modal transportation options. It’s also a plus for logistics operators and fish vendors who deal in inter-coastal trade.

Safety and Security

Like many semi-urban areas in Lagos, safety in Badore depends on where exactly you live and how proactive your community is. In general, the area is relatively safe. There are local vigilante groups and estate guards who work with the police to maintain peace.

While petty crimes exist—like phone snatching in isolated corners at night—violent crime is not rampant. Residents are advised to stay security-conscious, especially during late-night commutes. Newer estates usually have their own controlled security protocols.

Real Estate Investment in Badore

If you’re wondering whether Badore is worth considering for real estate investment, the short answer is yes—but with thoughtfulness.

Badore is not a place for those looking for fast flips and flashy returns. But if you understand long-term growth, rental income, and suburban property appreciation, then it’s a smart spot to watch. The demand for peaceful yet accessible living spaces is growing, and Badore fits that profile.

Several real estate developers have started small estate projects here, ranging from serviced plots to ready-to-live bungalows. The land title situation varies—some lands come with gazette or Governor’s Consent, while others still operate under family or excision titles. This is why due diligence is essential before any purchase.

Ayo’s New Beginning

Back to Ayo—he eventually rented a 3-bedroom duplex in one of the mini-estates in Badore. It was close to his office in Lekki Phase 1, but worlds apart in terms of peace and affordability. On weekends, he now takes boat rides just for fun, eats roasted fish at a local joint by the jetty, and even joined the estate WhatsApp group where residents joke, plan sanitation days, and sometimes share job vacancies.

“I thought I was moving far from the good life,” he said during a housewarming. “But I think I’ve just moved closer to the life that actually makes sense.”

Final Thoughts

What you need to know about Badore, Lagos is simple—it’s not trying to be the next Banana Island. It’s a community growing at its own pace, offering a blend of affordability, serenity, and accessibility. Whether you’re a young professional looking to rent, a family searching for space to grow, or an investor with an eye for long-term value, Badore might just be the quiet answer you didn’t know you were looking for.

So the next time someone tells you all the good places in Lagos are taken, tell them, “You probably haven’t been to Badore yet.”