Most Exclusive Members’ Clubs in Lagos and How to Get In.

In a populated city like Lagos, privacy is the ultimate luxury, as most of these exclusive members’ clubs serve as gathering places for high-profile individuals.

Some of these members’ clubs in Lagos have been in existence for several decades even before Nigeria’s independence, some of which were introduced during the colonial era by British expatriates and officials.

Miliki, Victoria Island.

This club was established by Patrick Koshoni in 2014. It is strictly a private members-only club located in Victoria Island, Lagos State. Miliki, is a commonly used to describe enjoyment or indulgence.

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The club is mainly focused on art, design and creativity. The membership largely attracts artists and cultural figures. Membership is obtained through formal application process, with preference for individuals working in art, designs and creative industries. Applicants are reportedly expected to be at least 25 years old in order to qualify for membership.

Lagos Yacht Club, Onikan.

This is one of the oldest sporting clubs in Nigeria, established by a group of expatriate sailing enthusiasts in Lagos in the early 1930s. It remains one of Lagos’ longest-standing sailing institutions.

Some of the early figures associated with the club’s development were C.J. Webb, Jessie Horne, R.M. Williams, H.A. Whittaker.

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Becoming a member of this club is difficult, as you must be formally nominated by two full boat-owning members of the club, publicly available information suggests applicants are expected to meet an age requirement of 21 years.

Gaia Africa, Victoria Island.

This club was founded by a corporate lawyer Oluwatoyin Candide-Johnson in 2018.

Described as Nigeria’s first women-only private members’ club established for senior women leaders and is located in Victoria Island, Lagos.

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GAIA is named after the ancient Greek goddess who represents “Mother Earth”.

Prospective members are expected to meet certain professional standard, before proceeding with the application process and must provide the names of two existing members of the club who are ready to act as sponsors.

The Metropolitan Club, Victoria Island.

This club is one of Nigeria’s highly private male-only institution. This is an elite club which comprises of senior professionals, business tycoons, political figures, and senior figures across various industries. Before gaining membership in this club, an individual must meet some certain criteria of professionalism. Membership is typically associated with senior professionals and established business figures. It is gained by invitation and requires a solid recommendation.

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Capital Club, Victoria Island.

This was established through a partnership involving international club operators and Nigerian investors. This is one of the most commercially connected private members’ institution and also one of the most premium private club in Lagos with international affiliations and business networks. Membership of this club is gained by invitation only.

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Lagos Polo Club, Ikoyi.

This club serves as a premier destination for Nigeria’s elite. It was established by British colonial officers who introduced the sport to Nigeria in the year 1904. Lagos Polo club combines equestrian sport with high society gatherings. The nature of this club attracts senior figures in Lagos business and government officials.

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To become a member of this club according to publicly available information, applicants are typically expected to be at least 21 years old, while membership requires nomination and seconded by two full members who have been with the club for at least 2 years.

Ikoyi Club 1938, Ikoyi.

This club was established in 1938, through the merger of two colonial clubs in Lagos, the European Club and Lagos Golf Club. This club started as a completely whites-only establishment during British colonial rule. But today it has evolved to a family club dominated by Nigerian corporate leaders. It is considered one of West Africa’s most renowned social institutions. Membership application forms are not obtained directly, by an existing member, who has been in the club for a minimum of two consecutive years.

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Most of these clubs are not solely centered around wealth as it is not a basic requirement to qualify an individual to gain membership. They are largely defined by influence, social networks, professional standing, and the ability to meet membership fees and obligations.