By Rodiat Olayinka
In the middle of busy Onikan, where traffic, horns and hurried footsteps define the rhythm of Lagos, there is a place that feels almost like a pause button. Step past the gates of the JK Randle Heritage Centre and the city’s noise fades into something softer replaced by trees, open courtyards, and the quiet presence of stories waiting to be told.
This is not just a museum. It is a reminder of who we were, who we are, and how far we have come.
Where Lagos Preserves Its Soul
The JK Randle Heritage Centre is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and culture of the Yoruba people and, by extension, Nigeria itself. Inside, every room feels intentional. From the architecture to the layout, the space invites visitors to slow down and pay attention.
As you move through the galleries, you encounter traditional artefacts, photographs, oral histories, and displays that explain how communities lived, ruled, traded, and celebrated. It doesn’t overwhelm you with information. Instead, it gently guides you through generations of memory.
For first-time visitors, the experience is both educational and emotional. You don’t just learn dates and names you begin to understand the identity behind them.
A Different Side of Lagos
Most people associate Lagos with speed, chaos, and energy. But JK Randle shows another side: one that is calm, thoughtful, and deeply rooted in culture. Walking through the centre feels like stepping into a quieter version of the city, one that still respects its past.
The outdoor spaces are especially beautiful. Trees line the walkways, and benches invite visitors to sit and reflect. It’s the kind of place where you can come alone with a book, visit with friends, or bring tourists who want to see more than malls and beaches.
What Makes It Special
What truly sets JK Randle apart is how accessible it makes history. You don’t need to be a scholar to enjoy it. The stories are presented in a way that anyone young or old can connect with. It bridges the gap between the past and the present, reminding us that our traditions are not something to be forgotten but something to be proud of.
It is also one of the few cultural spaces in Lagos where you can feel both inspired and at peace at the same time.
A Must-Visit for Culture Lovers
Whether you are a Lagosian looking to reconnect with your roots or a visitor trying to understand Nigeria beyond headlines and stereotypes, the JK Randle Heritage Centre is a place you should experience.
It doesn’t just tell you about history, it lets you feel it.
And in a city that rarely slows down, that alone makes it special.
* Rodiat is a student of Lagos State University of Science Technonology, Dept of Tourism Management, Epe, Lagos.
Rodiat Olayinka
