Why go self-catering in Lekki
Hotel restaurants in Lekki are the weakest part of most stays — mediocre and expensive. If you’re here more than three nights, a serviced apartment with a proper kitchenette pays for itself in one supermarket run at Shoprite or Ebeano. You’ll eat better, save $30 to $60 a day, and get real fridge space for water and beer. Lekki has a large short-let inventory driven by the diaspora market — quality varies wildly, so book from a known operator rather than a random Instagram listing.
Reliable operators
Fraser Suites Ikoyi ($260 to $320) is the top-end pick — full kitchens, gym, pool, and reliable power. Bolton White Apartments in Ikate ($150 to $220) has one and two-bedroom units with proper kitchens. The Rockview and Signature Lodge cover the $110 to $180 space with kitchenettes. On short-let platforms, look for buildings in Ikate, Osapa London and Lekki Phase 1 rated 4.7+ with 'inverter' explicitly in the listing — the difference between a working fridge overnight and warm milk in the morning.
Practical notes
Nigerian appliances run on 220V UK-style plugs. Bring or buy an adapter — most short-lets have a couple but not enough. Supermarkets: Shoprite in Circle Mall, Ebeano in Lekki Phase 1, Spar in Ikoyi. Stock up on bottled water (never drink tap), local eggs and produce, and get bread from Cakes & Cream or Sweet Kiwi rather than supermarket loaves. A single supermarket run for a week for two people runs $60 to $100. Butchers deliver in Lekki — try N.Y Meat or Farm-to-Table.
Good to know
Are utilities included?+
In serviced apartments yes; in Airbnb-style short-lets, usually yes but some deduct a diesel surcharge if generator use is heavy. Ask upfront. Water and internet almost always included; laundry may cost $5 to $15 per bag.
How reliable is power in serviced apartments?+
The good ones (Fraser, Bolton White, mid-range Ikate short-lets) run 24/7 on grid plus inverter plus generator. The bad ones lose power for 20-minute gaps and turn off aircon overnight to save diesel. Always confirm 'inverter-backed 24/7 power' before booking.