The English interpretation for “Surulere” is “Patience is profitable.”
That’s a statement that clicks in the ears of any true investor.
So it’s not too far from a coincidence that this part of Lagos is now ranked as one of the top areas with high return on investment, especially for properties and selected businesses.
But don’t just take our word for it.
In this article, we walk through 10 concrete and current realities of Surulere, which make the area an attractive point for investors.
First, what are the opportunities?
High ROI Opportunities in Surulere
Surulere is one of Lagos’ most strategically placed neighborhoods. It’s automatically a hotspot for both living and doing business.
Its central location means you’re just a short drive away from key areas like Lagos Island, Victoria Island, Ikeja, the University of Lagos, and even the National Stadium.
Because of how well-connected it is, Surulere has become a prime spot for real estate investment.
The area offers a mix of affordable homes, apartments, and commercial spaces, making it appealing for investors, first-time buyers, and business owners alike.
It’s not just about the location. Surulere also has a strong, growing business scene and continues to develop steadily.
Whether you’re looking to live, rent, or invest, this neighborhood checks a lot of boxes.
10 Reasons Why You Should Invest in Surulere
Surulere’s location is about 12 kilometers northwest of the Lagos mainland.
The conversion of old residential buildings into commercial spaces has become a common trend, accommodating businesses such as corporate offices, restaurants, and retail stores.
Shopping malls, office complexes, and mixed-use developments have further enhanced the commercial appeal of Surulere. But it doesn’t end there.
1. Central and Strategic Location
Surulere is in the heart of Lagos Mainland. It connects easily to other major areas like Yaba, Victoria Island, Lekki, Ikeja, and Lagos Island.
This central location makes it perfect for business and residential investment.
Why It Matters:
You can own a short-let apartment or a retail outlet here, and attract customers or renters from all over Lagos.
For example, if someone lives in Lekki but works in Yaba or Ikeja, Surulere is a great mid-point for them to stay or do business.
2. Home to Major Sports and Entertainment Hubs
Surulere houses the National Stadium, Teslim Balogun Stadium, and several event centers.
These places draw thousands of people weekly.
Why it Matters:
If you invest in hospitality (hotels, lounges, Airbnbs), food services, or event support businesses, you’ll tap into constant traffic from sporting events, concerts, and festivals.
You can also target athletes, fans, and event-goers.
3. Strong Middle-Class Population
Surulere is filled with educated, working-class families and young professionals.
This group spends money regularly on lifestyle, comfort, education, fashion, and food.
Why It Matters:
A supermarket, salon, restaurant, or even a gym would thrive here.
For example, Adeniran Ogunsanya Street alone is lined with cafes, spas, fashion shops, and co-working spaces. Many of these places are heavily patronised.
4. Rapid Real Estate Appreciation
Land and property values in Surulere are rising every year.
For instance, a 3-bedroom flat that sold for ₦25 million five years ago now goes for ₦60–₦80 million.
Why It Matters:
If you buy a property or land now, you can resell at a much higher price in a few years.
Even better, you can rent it out and enjoy steady passive income while the value keeps growing.
5. Ongoing Urban Development Projects
The Lagos State Government is investing in Surulere’s roads, drainage, and street lighting, especially drawing from the time of Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila.
Projects like the reconstruction of Bode Thomas and Itire roads improve traffic flow and security.
Why It Matters:
When infrastructure improves, more people want to live and do business there. So demand goes up.
It means your investment becomes more valuable and profitable over time.
6. Active Rental Market
Surulere is filled with students (from nearby universities and colleges), working professionals, and young families. The demand for rental apartments is high.
Why It Matters:
You can invest in mini-flats, self-contained apartments, or hostels.
You’ll enjoy a low vacancy rate, especially in places like Aguda, Iponri, and Bode Thomas. Tenants pay steadily, especially when the place is secure and accessible.
Meanwhile, at RentHouseSurulere, we make it easier to find rental properties in Suruere for rent or buy. You can send us a chat on WhatsApp.
7. Booming Retail and Shopping Scene
Surulere is home to malls like Adeniran Ogunsanya Mall (Shoprite), Leisure Mall, and many markets like Aguda and Tejuosho (just nearby).
We even dedicated a separate article to reviewing some of the thriving marketplaces in Surulere worth investing in.
Why it matters:
A store, pop-up shop, or franchise here will enjoy constant foot traffic.
If you’re selling fashion, electronics, groceries, or even health/beauty products, you’re in a prime spot to profit.
8. Proximity to Business Districts
It takes about 15–25 minutes to reach Lagos Island (CMS, Marina), Yaba tech hub, or even Ikeja GRA from Surulere.
Why this matters:
Businesspeople like to live or run secondary businesses in Surulere because they can move quickly between job sites.
You can set up a business center, logistics office, or residential complex for working-class tenants who prefer this convenience.
9. Presence of Creative and Cultural Communities
Many musicians, filmmakers, actors, and media professionals grew up or live in Surulere (e.g., Wizkid, Rema shot a video here).
The area has a strong culture of creativity.
Why it matters:
You can invest in studios, creative hubs, cafés, fashion spaces, or even cultural centers.
These attract young, trendy crowds who spend on experiences and content creation.
A small rooftop bar or studio rental space can boom here.
10. Strong Transport Network
Surulere has access to major roads like Western Avenue, Funsho Williams Avenue, and Ojuelegba, which link to Ikorodu Road, Lagos Island, and the Third Mainland Bridge.
Public transport is also widely available (danfo, BRT, bikes).
Why it matters:
This makes it easy for customers, tenants, and workers to reach your business.
If you’re in delivery, ride-hailing, laundry, or courier services, you can easily cover both Mainland and Island clients from Surulere.
The Bottom Line
The list goes on and on. But in a nutshell, Surulere is considered a smart, future-proof place to invest, especially because of the steady cash flow that can be guaranteed from rent or business profits.
It has been a location with long-term growth and a home to the Lagosian population that spends money often.
No matter the type of property you have here, you already have access to Lagos’ biggest event centers and roads.
For many investors, it’s just the peace of mind that their investment is safe and in demand.
