Anthony, Lagos: Area Guide

Anthony sits in a useful part of Lagos that most people overlook. It is not as expensive as Maryland, not as far from Ikeja as Gbagada, and not as congested as Oshodi. For young professionals and small families who need reliable access to Ikeja and the Mainland commercial corridor without paying Maryland prices, Anthony makes a quiet but convincing case. 

Rents for a 1-bedroom flat start from around N600,000 per year. The BRT on Ikorodu Road reduces the Lagos Island commute to something manageable. And the residential streets away from the main road have a calm, established character that is harder to find at this price point than most people expect.

This guide covers what Anthony is actually like to live in: the commute reality, the flooding risk, the schools, the healthcare options, and the trade-offs worth knowing before you sign a lease.

The Neighbourhood Feel

Anthony has the character of a Mainland neighbourhood that has never needed to prove itself. The streets are tree-lined and mostly residential. Long-term families and young professionals share the same blocks without much friction. It is not as socially buzzing as Yaba, not as corporate as Ikeja GRA, but it is stable, accessible, and significantly calmer than its price point would suggest.

The internal streets away from Ikorodu Road are quiet enough during the week that you notice it. On weekends, the neighbourhood comes alive in the way that settled Mainland areas do, with neighbours outside, small businesses open, the kind of low-level activity that signals a place people actually live in rather than pass through.

For anyone coming from a more chaotic part of Lagos, Anthony tends to feel like a relief.

Location and Accessibility

Anthony sits strategically along Ikorodu Road within the Kosofe Local Government Area (LGA). It is bordered by Maryland to the west, Gbagada to the east, and Ilupeju to the south. This central positioning makes it one of the most practically located mid-range addresses on the Lagos Mainland, acting as a vital bridge between the old and new city centers.

Living in Anthony offers a significant logistical edge for professionals:

• Ikeja & Alausa: The commute to the state capital is a mere 10 to 20 minutes by road under normal conditions. This is a meaningful advantage for those working at the Alausa Secretariat, LASUTH, or the Ikeja commercial zone.
• Lagos Island: Access via the Third Mainland Bridge is straightforward, though the commute typically takes 40 to 90 minutes during peak hours. This duration is a key factor for daily Island commuters to consider.
• Airport Access: With the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway nearby, reaching Murtala Muhammed International Airport is remarkably efficient compared to other mainland districts.

Public Transport & Infrastructure

The BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) corridor on Ikorodu Road is one of Anthony’s most underrated assets. It provides a reliable, predictable transport option to Lagos Island and Ikorodu, effectively removing the daily stress of driving in heavy traffic. For more localized movement, ride-hailing apps and traditional yellow buses (Danfos) cover the gaps well.

For private drivers, internal roads are in reasonable condition by Mainland standards. However, Ikorodu Road can back up significantly during rush hour, particularly toward the Maryland junction. Savvy residents often plan their entry and exit routes around these peak times to maximize efficiency.

Key Streets, Zones, and Estates

Anthony is broadly divided into the “Village” (the gated residential area) and the “Environs” (areas closer to the main roads).

Anthony Village Estate: This is the “Old Money” section of Anthony. It is a strictly residential, gated enclave that acts as the neighborhood’s crown jewel. 

Ajao Estate (Anthony): Often confused with the Ajao Estate near the airport, this is an upscale residential zone located within the Anthony axis. It is also known for its high-end detached houses.

Farayiola Street & Salami Street: Favored for modern residential apartments and a quiet, secure atmosphere. If you are a young professional looking for apartments for rent in Anthony, these streets are likely where your search will lead. It is also highly accessible and within walking distance of some of the area’s best cafes and gyms. 

Oyekanmi Street: A major artery that hosts a mix of residential buildings and small-scale professional offices. Oyekanmi serves as the functional backbone of Anthony. It is the street that bridges the residential quietude with the commercial necessity of the neighborhood.

While you can live on Oyekanmi, it is better suited for those who don’t mind a bit more daily activity and vehicular movement. It is excellent for “Live-Work” arrangements.

Flooding and Drainage: What You Need to Know

Anthony is built on relatively high ground compared to parts of Gbagada and Oworonshoki, and flooding is not a systemic issue in the way it is in some other Mainland addresses. The drainage infrastructure within the gated estates is actively maintained by resident associations, including regular de-silting before the rainy season.

The main flooding risk is on peripheral streets closer to Ikorodu Road, where drainage is less managed and heavy rain can cause temporary waterlogging. For properties in these areas, asking specifically about flooding history and visiting after heavy rain during the April to October wet season is the most reliable way to assess actual risk.

For the interior streets of Anthony Village and Ajao Estate, flooding is not a significant concern for most residents.

Safety and Security

Anthony operates on a layered security model which is one of the neighbourhood’s primary selling points. Most residential zones in the gated sections have manned gatehouses that restrict entry to non-residents, typically tightening between 9:00 PM and 6:00 AM. Individual streets within the estates employ private security guards who handle street-level surveillance and visitor vetting. 

The Anthony Police Station is located within the neighbourhood, providing a visible presence and relatively fast response times by Lagos standards.

On the open residential streets outside the gated sections, security is more variable. Petty theft occurs as it does across the Mainland, and the usual precautions apply: secured gates, locked vehicles, awareness of surroundings at night. Serious incidents are not a defining feature of the neighbourhood.

For families and young professionals, the gated sections of Anthony offer a security profile that is meaningfully better than most Mainland addresses at the same price point.

Commute and Getting Around

Anthony’s commute profile is undoubtedly its most important selling point, acting as the ultimate geographical sweet spot for Lagos professionals.

• To Lagos Island: Via the Ikorodu Road connecting to the Third Mainland Bridge or Eko Bridge, Anthony is one of the most accessible mainland addresses to the Island. Under light traffic, typically early morning or mid-day, the journey takes just 25 to 40 minutes. During peak morning and evening rush hours, when the bridges back up significantly, expect 60 minutes to 1.5 hours. This is meaningfully better than navigating from deeper mainland areas and, for many professionals, genuinely manageable as a daily commute.
• To Victoria Island: Navigating over the bridge and through Lagos Island or the Ozumba Mbadiwe approach, you should add 15 to 30 minutes to the baseline Island commute time above. This transit duration remains highly competitive compared to most Lagos mainland neighborhoods at equivalent real estate price points.
• To Ikeja and Mainland Commercial Hubs: This is where living in Anthony truly shines. Reaching the state capital in Ikeja, the Alausa Secretariat, or LASUTH, takes 10 to 20 minutes under decent conditions. Anthony’s connectivity toward Oshodi, Maryland, and the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is an underrated asset that ensures rapid movement across the Mainland.
• Within Anthony: The internal road network, particularly within the gated Anthony Village, is among the best-maintained on the Mainland. While commercial Danfo buses handle the major external boundaries, Keke NAPEPs and okadas manage the fringes (they are strictly regulated or banned inside the premium estates). Uber and Bolt availability is exceptional; the area’s central location guarantees drivers are always just minutes away.

The BRT Advantage: The dedicated BRT corridor directly on Ikorodu Road provides a highly practical commute option for non-drivers. Boarding at the Anthony bus stop offers a faster, cheaper, and far more predictable journey to CMS or TBS than regular road traffic during peak Lagos hours.

Top Schools Around Anthony

Anthony’s school infrastructure is a primary driver for its high residential demand. It offers quality options that are competitive with the high-brow Island corridor.

Notable schools in and around the area include:

• Greensprings School (Anthony Campus): A titan of private education in Nigeria, providing world-class British and International Baccalaureate curricula right within the neighborhood.
• Corona Schools (Maryland): Located just minutes away, this is a staple for premium foundational and secondary education.
• Maryland Comprehensive Secondary School: A well-regarded institution that combines historical prestige with strong academic results.
• Boutique Nursery & Primary Schools: The gated sections of Anthony host several high-end, low-density private schools that serve the local family population, ensuring young children don’t have to leave the security of the estate.

For families, the combination of established brands and a culture of family-oriented residential living makes it one of the top Mainland choices for households with children.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Anthony is defined by a high-end medical infrastructure that prioritizes speed and specialist precision. Unlike many mainland addresses that rely heavily on large, crowded public facilities, Anthony’s healthcare landscape is characterized by its proximity to elite private institutions and diagnostic centers.

• The St. Nicholas Advantage: A cornerstone of the area’s medical prestige is the St. Nicholas Hospital (Maryland/Anthony branch) located on Faramobi Ajike Street. This facility brings the world-class clinical standards of its Lagos Island parent to the Mainland, specializing in nephrology, cardiology, and general wellness. For residents, this means having access to “Island-grade” healthcare without leaving the neighborhood.
• The Diagnostic Powerhouse: Anthony is a major hub for specialized medical diagnostics. Institutions like Clinix Healthcare and Help Laboratories (on Bush Street) offer state-of-the-art MRI, CT scans, and DNA testing. This concentration of diagnostic power is rare for a residential area and means residents can complete comprehensive health screenings within minutes of their front door.
• Specialist Clinics and Emergency Access: The area is dotted with private specialist clinics catering to diverse needs, from Adefemi Hospital’s renowned maternal care to specialized orthopedic and geriatric services. Furthermore, Anthony’s position on Ikorodu Road ensures a “straight-line” emergency route to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) in Ikeja, providing a critical tertiary safety net.

Much like the schools in the area, Anthony’s hospitals attract a resident population of senior consultants and medical administrators. This has fostered a community where healthcare is not just a service but a standard of living. The proximity to the Gbagada-Anthony medical corridor makes it a top-tier choice for families who prioritize rapid medical response and high-acuity care.

Lifestyle, Food, and Retail

The Anthony Market remains the anchor for daily provisions fresh produce, proteins, and household staples at prices that compare well with Maryland and Gbagada. For residents who cook regularly, it covers most daily needs without requiring a trip to a supermarket.

• Retail Hubs: The neighborhood is a 5-minute drive from Maryland Mall (the “Big Black Box”), home to Shoprite, Miniso, and several international fashion brands.
• The “Work-From-Home” Hub: In 2026, Anthony has become a favorite for remote tech talent. Coworking spaces like The Professional Place offer uninterrupted power and high-speed fiber internet for the area’s growing freelance community.
• Dining & Nightlife: For those who prefer to stay within the Village, Anthony offers several high-quality, long-standing favorites like 

• The Village Lounge (Okunfolami Street): known for its “Island-style” sophistication on the Mainland. It is the go-to spot for fine dining, live music, and a premium lounge experience.
• Sylva Link Hotel & Lounge: Located on Kunle Adebowale Street, this spot offers a more relaxed environment for evening drinks and local delicacies, popular with residents who want a quiet night out.

Unlike noisier Mainland parts, the wide, tree-lined streets of Anthony Village Estate are perfect for morning jogs. For a more intensive workout, several private boutique gyms are tucked within the gated streets, offering yoga and HIIT sessions.

Utilities: Power and Water

Power Supply: Anthony generally benefits from a more stable power supply via the Ikeja Electric grid than many surrounding areas. Most new developments in the area are “fully serviced,” integrating solar-hybrid systems to guarantee 24/7 electricity.

Water & Waste: Most residential properties rely on treated private boreholes. Waste management is highly organized, with the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and private PSP operators maintaining a consistent schedule within the gated estates.

Connectivity: This is a “Fiber-Strong” zone. Major providers like FiberOne and iConnect have extensive infrastructure here, ensuring that residents enjoy some of the fastest internet speeds on the Mainland.

What to Watch Out For

While living in Anthony offers a high quality of life, there are specific neighborhood nuances that every prospective resident or investor should factor into their decision-making process.

• The “Bus Stop” Bottleneck: The main Anthony bus stop on Ikorodu Road is one of the Mainland’s most active transit hubs. During peak morning and evening rush hours, the influx of commercial vehicles and commuters can cause significant congestion at the primary entry point into the Village. Smart residents often mitigate this by using “back-gate” routes through Gbagada or Maryland to enter the residential zones, bypassing the main Ikorodu Road gridlock.
• Rising Estate Dues: To maintain the exceptional level of security, street lighting, and road quality that defines the area, the Resident Associations (RAs) charge mandatory annual dues. If you are eyeing a property in a gated street, factor these into your yearly budget. Depending on the specific street or the level of service (e.g., 24/7 armed patrol vs. basic gatemen), these dues can range from ₦200,000 to over ₦550,000 per annum.
• Commercial Creep: Because Anthony is so centrally located, there is constant pressure from businesses looking to convert residential properties into offices or “dark kitchens.” While this drives up property values, it can occasionally lead to increased street parking and noise on peripheral streets. It is always wise to check the specific zoning and “quiet hours” policy of a street before signing a lease.
• Property Age vs. Modernity: You will find a stark contrast between “Old Anthony” (solid but dated bungalows) and “New Anthony” (ultra-modern apartments). When viewing older properties, pay close attention to plumbing and electrical systems, as some structures may require upgrades to meet the power demands of modern appliances and inverters.

For current verified listings with real-time pricing and availability, browse apartments in Anthony on Expert Listing

Who the Area is Best Suited For

Anthony is a strategic choice for specific types of Lagosians. You will thrive here if you are:

The Dual-Commuter Professional: If one partner works in Ikeja/Alausa and the other works on the Island, Anthony is the perfect “middle ground” that keeps both commutes under an hour.

The Safety-Conscious Family: Parents who want their children to play in a gated environment and attend world-class schools like Greensprings without spending three hours in a school bus.

The Remote Worker: For the freelancer or remote worker, the combination of stable power, fiber-to-the-home internet, and quiet daytime surroundings makes Anthony a productivity haven.

The Conservative Investor: Investors looking for “Blue Chip” stability rather than the volatile speculation of the far-flung outskirts. Anthony offers low vacancy rates and consistent capital appreciation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Anthony Village prone to flooding? Generally, no. Anthony is situated on higher ground compared to parts of Gbagada or Oworonshoki. Its drainage infrastructure is well-maintained by the resident associations, making it a safe choice during the rainy season.

How do I get a BRT pass in Anthony? There is a dedicated Cowry Card top-up station near the Anthony bus stop. Using the BRT is often the fastest way to get to the Island during the 7:00 AM rush.

Are pets allowed in the estates? Yes, most residential streets in Anthony are pet-friendly, though individual landlords and specific estate associations may have rules regarding noise and leash-walking in common areas.

Which LGA is Anthony in Lagos? Kosofe L.G.A

What is the average rent for a 3-bedroom flat in Anthony? As of early 2026, a modern, serviced 3-bedroom apartment typically rents for between ₦4.5 million and ₦7.5 million per annum, depending on the level of finishing and security features.

Is it safe to walk around Anthony?

Within the gated sections of Anthony Village and Ajao Estate, the environment is highly secure and pedestrian-friendly. Residents frequently walk and exercise in these areas both in the early morning and late evening.