Lagos Nightlife Shines As Second Best In Africa, 14th Globally, Says Time Out Magazine.
Lagos has secured a prestigious spot as the second-best city for nightlife in Africa and 14th in the world, according to Time Out Magazine’s 2025 global nightlife rankings. The vibrant Nigerian metropolis, renowned for its pulsating energy, trailed only Cape Town, South Africa, on the African continent, while surpassing cities like Cairo, Egypt, and Marrakech, Morocco, in the international list.
Time Out, a globally respected lifestyle publication, surveyed thousands of residents and consulted nightlife experts to compile the rankings. An impressive 79% of Lagosians rated their city’s nightlife positively, praising its diversity and dynamism. The report highlighted Lagos’ evolution from exclusive lounges to inclusive underground raves, with events like SweatItOutLagos and Our Group Therapy gaining popularity. Venues such as Freedom Park and The House on Victoria Island were noted for hosting diverse events, from salsa nights to afro house club evenings, reflecting the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, hailed the ranking as a testament to the city’s safety and vibrant socio-economic landscape. He pointed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s investments in tourism, entertainment, and security as key drivers of this achievement. Omotoso also noted that Lagos will make history in 2025 as the first African city to host the EI water race championship, further boosting its global profile. The annual “Detty December” festivities, known for their economic and cultural impact, were cited as a highlight of the city’s nightlife calendar.
The ranking follows Lagos’ strong performance in Time Out’s 2024 list, where it placed sixth globally, ahead of cities like Rotterdam and Manchester. The city’s nightlife, deeply rooted in the global rise of Afrobeats, continues to thrive, with venues like Quilox, Cubanna, and New Afrika Shrine drawing both locals and tourists. According to a report by Oui Capital, Lagos’ nightlife industry is valued at nearly ₦1.5 trillion (£720 million, based on 1 GBP ≈ ₦2070.27 as of 24 July 2025), with nightclubs alone generating ₦4.32 billion ($2.7 million) during the 2024 Detty December period.
Despite economic challenges, including inflation and currency devaluation, Lagos’ nightlife remains resilient. Nightclub promoters describe it as a “goldmine,” with high returns driven by a young, vibrant population seeking respite from daily stresses. The city’s blend of cultural heritage and modern entertainment continues to solidify its reputation as a global nightlife capital.
