Epe, Nigeria
Region: Lagos
Geographic Coordinates: 6.557300, 3.991200
Temperature Range: 25.0°C to 35.0°C (77°F to 95°F)
Climate: Epe, Nigeria experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a wet season from April to October and a dry season from November to March.
Population: 181409
Language: Yoruba
Epe is a beautiful town located in the southwestern part of Nigeria. It is situated in Lagos State and has a population of over 181, 000 people. Epe is known for its rich cultural heritage, Vibrant markets, And stunning natural scenery. One of the major attractions in Epe is the Epe Fish Market. The market is one of the largest fish markets in Nigeria and attracts visitors from all over the country. Here you can find different types of fresh fish such as tilapia, Catfish, Mackerel and more at affordable prices.
Another popular attraction in Epe is the Ogunmodede Waterfront Resort. This resort offers a serene environment with breathtaking views of nature’s beauty that includes mangrove forests, Lagoons and creeks surrounding it. It also provides tourists with an opportunity to engage in outdoor activities like fishing expeditions or boat rides. Epe also boasts several historical landmarks such as The Palace Of Oloja Of Epeland which was built over 100 years ago by King Kosoko who was exiled from Lagos to Epe by British colonialists during his reign as king between 1853-1866.
Another historical landmark worth visiting while in Epe is The Olumegbon Palace which was built about two centuries ago by Prince Olumegbon who ruled Epeland before he died. The town has many festivals throughout the year including Eid al-Fitr which marks the end of Ramadan fasting period for Muslims; Osun-Osogbo Festival which celebrates Yoruba culture; Igunuko Festival which honours traditional deities among others. In addition to its rich cultural heritage and tourist attractions, Epe has a thriving economy supported mainly by agriculture and fishing industries.
Farmers cultivate crops such as cassava, Yam, Maize while fishermen catch different species of fish that are sold both locally and internationally. yet importantly, Epe has good road networks that connect it to other cities in Nigeria. It is also home to several educational institutions, Including primary and secondary schools, As well as tertiary institutions such as the Lagos State University (LASU) Epe campus. Epe is a town that has something for everyone. From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural scenery and vibrant markets, There’s always something new to discover in this beautiful town.
Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, Epe has plenty of attractions that will keep you entertained throughout your stay.
Important Landmarks
- Epe Fish Market
- Lekki Conservation Centre
- Ogunmodede Waterfall
- Epe Resort and Spa
- Eleko Beach
- Akodo Beach
- Nike Art Gallery
- Freedom Park Lagos
- Terra Kulture
- National Museum Lagos
Primary Industries
- Agriculture: Epe is known for its fertile land and agricultural products such as cassava, maize, vegetables, and fruits.
- Fishing: The town is located close to the Lagos Lagoon and fishing is a major occupation for many people in Epe.
- Tourism: The town has several tourist attractions including the Epe fish market, Ogunmodede Waterfall, and the historic Epe Resort.
- Manufacturing: There are a few small-scale manufacturing companies in Epe producing products such as textiles, soap, and plastics.
- Trading: Many people engage in trading activities such as buying and selling of goods at markets like the Oluwole Market.
- Education: There are several schools ranging from primary to tertiary institutions in Epe including Lagos State University (LASU) which has a campus there.
- Health services: There are hospitals and health centers providing medical services to residents of the town and surrounding areas.
Noteable History
- Epe War: In the 19th century, Epe was involved in a series of wars against neighboring towns and kingdoms, including the Oyo Empire.
- King Kosoko: One of the most notable rulers of Epe was King Kosoko, who ruled from 1825 to 1851. He is remembered for his resistance against British colonialism and his efforts to modernize Epe.
- The Slave Trade: Like many other African towns and kingdoms, Epe was involved in the transatlantic slave trade during the 18th and 19th centuries. Many slaves were captured in Epe and sold to European traders.
- Agriculture: Agriculture has been a major part of Epe’s economy for centuries, with crops such as cassava, yams, maize, and rice being grown in large quantities.
- Fishing: Due to its location on Lagos Lagoon and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, fishing has also been an important industry in Epe for many years.
- Education: In recent years, there have been efforts to improve education in Epe with several schools being built by both government and private organizations.
- Notable People: Some notable people associated with Epe include former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo who hails from nearby Abeokuta but has strong ties to the town; Nigerian singer Wizkid whose father is from Epe; Former Governor of Lagos State Akinwunmi Ambode who served between May 2015 – May 2019; amongst others
Museums and Things To See
- Epe Fish Market: This bustling market offers visitors a chance to see a variety of fresh fish and other seafood.
- Epe Mangrove Forest Reserve: A protected area that is home to various species of mangroves, birds, and other wildlife.
- Lagos State Model College, Epe: This secondary school serves as a monument to education in the community.
- Lekki Conservation Centre: An ecotourism center with elevated walkways through the forest, a bird hide, and a treehouse.
- Ogunlade Palace: The traditional home of the Olu-Epe (king) and an important cultural site in the city.
- Nike Art Gallery Lagos (Epe Branch): An art center showcasing traditional Nigerian art and crafts including textiles, pottery, beadwork, and more.
- Eko Tourist Beach Resort: A popular beach destination with facilities for swimming, sunbathing or water sports activities like jet skiing or parasailing; it’s perfect for picnicking too!
- Freedom Park Lagos Island: A historic site that was once used as a colonial prison but has been transformed into an open-air venue for concerts & events.
- National Museum Lagos: A museum showcasing Nigeria’s rich history & culture including exhibits on arts & crafts from different regions.
- Terra Kulture Arts Centre: An arts centre dedicated to promoting Nigerian culture through theatre productions, art exhibitions, music performances, etc.
Cultural Events
- Epe Ojude-Oba Festival: This is an annual festival that takes place during Eid-el-Kabir celebration. It is a colorful event where indigenes of Epe dress up in traditional attire to pay homage to the Oba of Lagos.
- Egungun Festival: The Egungun festival is a masquerade festival celebrated by Yoruba people in Nigeria. It takes place annually in different parts of Yorubaland including Epe.
- Oro Festival: The Oro festival is another traditional event celebrated by people in Epe and other parts of Yorubaland. It usually occurs at night with only men allowed to participate.
- Osun-Osogbo Festival: Although this festival takes place outside Epe, it remains popular among many residents due to its significance among Yoruba-speaking communities.
- Igunuko Festival: The Igunuko festival celebrates the end of harvest season when farmers give thanks for their bountiful harvests with music, dance performances, and feasting on local delicacies such as pounded yam with different soups like egusi soup or vegetable soup.
Please note that these events may be subject to change depending on current circumstances or government regulations due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions or other reasons beyond our control; thus it’s advisable to verify any information before attending any cultural event or festivals mentioned above.
Cuisine
- Eko Akete Restaurant, which serves traditional Nigerian dishes like jollof rice, pepper soup, and pounded yam.
- Oluwaseun Food Canteen offers a variety of local dishes including amala, eba, and ewedu soup.
- Mama Cass Restaurant chain is known for its delicious Nigerian cuisine with branches across the country.
- Alhaja Bintu Catering Services specializes in traditional Yoruba dishes such as iyan (pounded yam), efo riro (vegetable soup), and gbegiri (bean soup).
- Adejoke Kitchen is a popular spot for locals looking for delicious home-cooked meals like egusi soup, fried rice or beans porridge.
- Ayo Buka Restaurant & Bar offers a range of African cuisines from jollof rice to suya skewers located in the heart of Epe town.
- Bukka Hut Restaurant & Bar is known for its grilled fish specialties but also serves up staple Nigerian dishes like plantain porridge and okra stew.
- KFC Epe Mall has opened up shop at the newly built mall on Lagos-Epe expressway offering their signature fried chicken meals to go!
- Epe Recreation Park
- Oluwole Park
- Ojota Mini Stadium
- Epe Fish Market and Jetty
- Lekki Conservation Centre
- Epe Mangroves Forest Reserve
- Eleko Beach Resort
- Tarkwa Bay Beach Resort
- Badagry Heritage Museum and Slave Route Tour