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LADIPOE

With 70% of Nigeria's population being under 35, the country's cultural scene is burgeoning with young talent right now. Rapper LADIPOE is a key part of that scene, along with creatives like Stephen Tayo, fashion collective Vivendii and musicians like Burna Boy and Wizkid. Lagos, which is spread over four islands, has a rich selection of spots and events where you can experience local music, art, and culture -- and get involved in it too. From open mic nights that showcase unknown artists to collaborative party spaces like hFACTOR, Lagos has been carving out a name for itself for a while as Nigeria's cultural capital. Locations like Bogobiri and Jazzhole give off an innate coolness and proudly display Nigeria's history -- something that LADIPOE loves.

Read LADIPOE's guide to see all of his top art and culture spots to hit up if you want to discover Lagos' cultural hubs and local hang-out spots.

A quirky afrocentric boutique hotel with a small gallery and a serious vinyl collection of vintage Nigerian music. They host an open mic night every Thursday and this is where I first began to hone my skill as a performer. The food is great too.

This was once a prison during colonial times, but it’s now a centre that celebrates art and culture. It’s home to quite a few festivals and live events, but Afropolitan Vibes is the one that offered me and many others a platform to perform to a big crowd of regulars.

It’s hard to describe hFACTOR. It’s this really cool space in the heart of Lagos Island. They often collaborate with different people to throw some amazing parties and you get to meet the most unique characters. It’s a completely different vibe each time.

It’s the tea for me. However, it is first and foremost a library of vinyl records, CDs, DVDs and books. The proprietors are also a great source of knowledge about Lagos, and Nigeria in general. Also, as mentioned earlier, the tea is excellent. I performed there once, as a member of a group called the Collectiv3.

So many of us have been excluded from places because of our fashion sense, musical leanings and unique way we present ourselves to the world, but at Island Block Party (and its progenitor - mainland block party), everyone is welcome. My favourite thing about it is the exchange of culture between dissimilar yet like-minds. It’s what makes this monthly party a must to attend. It’s also a great place for upcoming and established acts to perform.

Jazzhole

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