Why Everyone Is Moving from the Island to the Mainland in 2025 — The Truth Will Shock You!

In what feels like a twist no one saw coming, Lagos residents are trading their Lekki dream homes for the ‘humble’ streets of Surulere, Ogudu, and Gbagada. Yes, you read that right — the great reverse migration is on. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Wait, People Are Leaving the Island?

For decades, moving to the Island was a sign you had finally “made it.” From Victoria Island’s posh lounges to Lekki’s estate-filled streets, it was the Lagos fantasy. But in 2025, that dream is crashing faster than Lagos traffic on Third Mainland Bridge.

And now? Even influencers are packing their ring lights and heading back to the Mainland.

Flooding, Rent Hikes & Crumbling Roads: The Island Crisis

Let’s talk hard facts:

• Lekki Phase 1 rent has gone up by 35% in the last year alone, according to PropertyPro.ng.

• Flooding is now an annual tradition. In July 2025, over 700 homes were damaged due to overflowing canals in Lekki.

• Infrastructure decay is no joke. A resident told Eyes of Lagos, “I pay ₦6 million annually, but I need a canoe just to reach my gate during rainy season.”

Why the Mainland Suddenly Looks Like Paradise

Mainland locations like Surulere, Ogudu GRA, and Gbagada are now top real estate picks.

• Better drainage systems in some areas.

• More accessible rent prices: Gbagada mini flats go for ₦600k to ₦1.2M annually.

• Closer to CBDs like Yaba and Ikeja.

• Quieter lifestyle (Yes, Gbagada Twitter is still loud, but at least the roads work.)

One property developer, Mr. Demola Adebayo, said:

“We’re seeing 40% more inquiries for rentals on the Mainland compared to the Island. People want stability, not a fancy flooded duplex.”

Social Media Is Already Buzzing

X Reactions:

“Island rent be like Dubai, but you still need boat to enter your compound 😂 #LekkiWahala” — @theRealSeyi

“Moved back to Surulere and I haven’t missed the Island once. Peace of mind > status.” — @mo_lagos

“Lekki is the new Ajegunle with Banana Island rent. Good luck to you guys.” — @madamenoough

Who’s Leading This Move?

• Young professionals who are done with traffic and blackouts.

• Newly married couples seeking space and better security.

• Content creators choosing affordability over aesthetics (yes, that IG skit can happen in Shomolu too).

Conclusion: The Lekki Dream Is Now A Nightmare

In 2025, the Island-to-Mainland migration isn’t just real — it’s booming. People are waking up to the hard truth: lifestyle over labels.

And while you’re paying ₦8M for rent and ₦200K monthly for diesel in Lekki, someone in Ogudu is sipping cold Zobo in a duplex for half the price — with zero flooding.