My friend and I decided to visit the Jaekel House Railway Museum in Ebute-Meta, Lagos, after watching a video about it on Instagram. It is a mini museum located inside a 126-year-old building, a place that holds many memories about Nigeria’s railway history.
Getting In
When we arrived at the museum, we were told there was an entrance fee, but the amount you pay isn’t fixed. It depends on how good you are at bargaining. Some people managed to get in for just ₦1,000, while others paid as much as ₦2,000, but my friend and I paid ₦1,500 each.
The Tour with a Museum Official
After getting our tickets, a friendly museum official approached us and offered to take us on a guided tour. We were happy to have someone who could explain what we were looking at because it made the experience much more meaningful. The official was very knowledgeable about the history of the railway in Nigeria. He told us stories about the early days of the railway, sharing interesting facts and giving us a deeper understanding of how important the railway was for Nigeria’s development.
He took us from one room to another, showing us old photographs, tools, and other objects that were used when the railway first began. Some of those items were well over a century old and he also shared anecdotes about the lives of the people who worked on the railways, painting a vivid picture of what it looked like back then. We saw so many black-and-white photographs of the early railway, including images of old trains, railway stations, and some workers who operated the trains. We also saw maps of the old railway lines, showing how the network connected different parts of Niger.
Outside the House
After we explored the inside of Jaekel House, the official led us into the garden, where unique displays awaited. Instead of old trains, we found fascinating railway-related objects, including a train car and a railway bicycle. The small, open train car once helped officers inspect tracks, while the railway bicycle, a cross between a bike and a trolley, allowed workers to move quickly up and down the rails.
The official explained how these items were used in the past. The train car was used by rail supervisors who needed to move quickly to check on the tracks and ensure everything was in good condition. The railway bicycle, on the other hand, was a tool for maintenance workers who needed to cover shorter distances faster than they could on foot.
The Surroundings
Jaekel House stands as a fine example of colonial architecture. The building features wide verandas with thick wooden pillars, large windows, and heavy wooden doors. Painted white and surrounded by peaceful gardens, it gives off a calm, relaxing atmosphere.
A museum official explained that senior railway officers once lived here during the colonial era. The house took its name from Francis Jaekel, a former superintendent of the Nigerian Railway Corporation. Today, its preserved structure, from the wooden floors to the old-style doors, keeps the memories of that period alive and showcases Nigeria’s colonial past.
Why You Should Visit Jaekel House
Visiting Jaekel House was more than viewing old railway items — it felt like stepping into Nigeria’s history. The museum tells the story of how the railway connected people, moved goods, and supported the economy. It also reflects Nigeria’s journey from colonialism to independence, showing why preserving the past matters.
The tour deepened my appreciation for the railway’s role in national growth. It offered a glimpse into a time when trains powered travel and trade. It also reminded me how far Nigeria has come — and how much of that progress rests on remembering where we began.
Final Thoughts
Our visit to Jaekel House Railway Museum was both educational and enjoyable. It’s a perfect spot for history lovers, students, or anyone looking for something different to do in Lagos. The museum gives you a chance to learn.
If you find yourself in Lagos and want to explore a piece of the city’s history, the Jaekel House Railway Museum is worth a visit whether you’re there to learn about the railway or just to take beautiful pictures.
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