…rediscovering Ndubisi Kanu Park, Ikeja
By Elvis Eromosele
What began as a simple errand in Ikeja quietly turned into an unexpected pause for rest and reflection. While waiting, a thought crossed my mind: why not make a quick dash to JJT Park in Alausa? I got there, looked around, and on impulse decided to try Ndubisi Kanu Park instead.
It turned out to be a great choice.
Entry is orderly. You need your tax number to purchase a ticket, ₦1,000 per person. A tag is issued at the gate; ours was yellow. From that moment, the experience felt intentional and well-thought-out.
The park has improved remarkably since my last visit. It is well maintained, with visible attention to cleanliness and order. For children, there’s a cordoned-off play area fitted with slides, swings, climbing frames, and other fun installations. A DJ kept the atmosphere lively, spinning familiar Naija tunes that blended perfectly with the relaxed, open-air setting.
If you want to sit comfortably, you can rent mats for ₦1,000 each. Ours were clean, neat, perhaps even new. Waste management was impressive too, with plenty of green-painted bins thoughtfully placed around the park.
Tall trees provided generous shade, offering shelter from the sun and making the space ideal for lingering. There is an aviary with doves, pigeons and other birds.
Visitors are allowed to bring in their own food, which adds to the park’s appeal for families and small groups. It’s also a great location for photo shoots, board games, and casual hangouts.
At one end, people were setting up for an event; at the other, a mini event centre stood ready. Importantly, there are functional restroom facilities, clean and accessible, which always make a difference.
All in all, Ndubisi Kanu Park offered a refreshing reminder that public spaces, when properly managed, can truly enhance everyday city life. Sometimes, the best moments come from unplanned detours.
I hope to visit again soon.
