A TRIP TO KALAKUTA MUSEUM (kalakuta ) Fela Aníkúlápó Kuti (born Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti; 15 October 1938 – 2 August 1997), also known as Abami Eda, was a Nigerian multi-instrumentalist, bandleader, composer, political activist, and Pan-Africanist. He is regarded as the pioneer of Afrobeat, an African music genre that combines traditional Yoruba percussion and vocal styles with American funk and jazz.At the height of his popularity, he was referred to as one of Africa's most "challenging and charismatic music performers".All Music described him as a "musical and sociopolitical voice" of international significance. KALAKUTA Republic was the name musician and political activist Fela Kuti gave to the communal compound that housed his family, band members, and recording studio. Located at 14 Agege Motor Road, Idi-Oro, Mushin, Lagos, Nigeria, it had a free health clinic, and recording facility.Fela declared it independent from the state ruled by the military junta after he returned from the United States in 1970. "Kalakuta" was a mockery of a prison cell named "Calcutta" that Fela inhabited.The name was originally derived from the infamous Black Hole of Calcutta dungeon in India. ▪️His father Israel Oludotun Ransome-Kuti. He was a clergyman and an educator. He was first a teacher, then a principal.Israel Oludotun Ransome-Kuti (1891-1955) Eminent Nigerian churchman, educationist and administrator, he was the founding president of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Africa's largest professional group. He was born on 30 April 1891, to an Egba family in Abeokuta. His father was Reverend Canon J. J. Ransome-Kuti well known for his outstanding administrative competence as well as his talents as a singer, which earned him the nickname "the Singing Minister." Israel Oludotun was born at the Anglican parish of Gbagura, Abeokuta, where his father was serving as a teacher/catechist. ▪️His Mother Chief Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, born Frances Abigail Olufunmilayo Thomas; 25 October 1900 – 13 April 1978), also known as Funmilayo Anikulapo-Kuti, was a Nigerian educator, political campaigner, suffragist, and women's rights activist. She was the first woman to drive a car in Nigeria,She dumped her Christian name Funmilayo had Frances Abigail informally removed from her official names. This was done after she returned from schooling in Britain. The reason for this, UNESCO posit, is due to the racism she encountered abroad and She was the first woman appointed to the Western House Apart from receiving the chieftaincy title of Oloye of Yoruba people, Funmilayo was also the first woman to be appointed to the Western House. The Western House is a post-colonial assembly, either legislative or advisory, that is recognised by either a national or regional government as consisting of and providing a collective, public voice for an ethnic group's pre-colonial authorities. ▪️His 2 BROTHERS Olikoye Ransome-Kuti (30 December 1927 – 1 June 2003);a paediatrician, activist and health minister of Nigeria and Dr. Bekolari Ransome-Kuti (2 August 1940 – 10 February 2006) was a Nigerian medical doctor known for his work as a human rights activist. were medical doctors while his ONLY SISTER Dolapo Ransome-Kuti was a Nurse. ▪️Akinwande Oluwole Babatunde Soyinka, known as Wole Soyinka, is a Nigerian playwright, novelist, poet, and essayist in the English language is Fela's cousin ▪️Fela's lawyer ;Femi Falana,SAN(a Nigerian lawyer and Human right activist) is also the father to Folarin Falana popularly known as FALZ THE BAD GUY.Femi Falana was always trying to show sympathy towards people, is well known for opposing oppression from successive military authorities.Falz is following his footprints. Listening to FELA'S music is not enough to understand his message, visiting his resting place would give you a clearer picture of what his life and time was about. N:B For every picture you see here,there is a message /meaning attached to it. ©️Nwosu Chioma,R.N #tourlife #NurseChummy

I had personal assignment that landed me to Ikeja one April Tuesday, after I wound up my assignment, off I went to Fela’s residence, The Kalakuta Musuem also at Ikeja, Lagos, sadly I wasn’t all packed to sleep over. Well yes there is lodging available at The Kalakuta Museum…this would be a tale for another day. I walked into the compound, Fela is everywhere.There’s a backdrop wall art depicting shades of Fela, just before you walk into the front door. At the front door is a friendly front desk lady, very welcoming and beside her is a warm charming young man, ‘Biodun – he’d be my tour guide…he serenaded me to a couple of Fela’s songs too. I had already made my findings prior to my visit, so I knew I had to pay a mandatory NGN 1,000 entry fee. My tour of Fela’s home commenced ,The Kalakuta Museum. The ground floor houses a number of Fela’s album covers, there’s also a room stocked with Fela Souvenirs. They were two highlights to my tour – Fela’s bedroom and the rooftop bar; absolutely love what was done with the space. I love the fact his room is intact – just the way he left it after he passed on (well apart from the post mortem awards displayed). The rooftop bar, I love the ambience and of course for the food and drinks There are lots of pictures up the wall and in the many rooms as you ascend the floors depicting times in the life of Fela.

The Kalakuta Museum was one of, and the final home, of musical legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti during his sojourn on earth. It hosts a museum, gift shop, entertainment spot, and hotel. Guests are sometimes asked for identification cards to ensure the clientele is responsible. A guided tour costs One Thousand Naira only, and this includes a tour of Fela's private room, closet, musical instruments, possessions, newspaper clippings of the legend and his band, manifesto and party documents from his political party and presidential bid, the family photo gallery, and all rooms of the multi storey house. The upper floor which gives a view of the surrounding area has been converted to a bar where drinks, and food are sold. The premises also functions as a hotel, and guests can stay overnight in the rooms. Sales of hard drugs (marijuana) is not allowed on the premises.

We visited the museum on a weekday afternoon. The place looked a bit dark inside and we were the only ones there. We paid N2.000 per person for a 15 minute tour. The tour guide was constantly patronizing us for not knowing the names of the places, people and events that he was talking about. I mean, we're clearly tourists/oyinbo's, there to learn something about the local history, the whole point of a museum in my opinion. At least recognize your audience! Even if you believe Fela was a great man, the tour didn't really do a good job to convey his story or why it was important for West Africa and Nigeria. I don't recommend anyone come here. The pictures and items on display were lackluster at best.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

My experience at the Kalakuta museum was fantastic. The tour guide (I think Samuel) whom I have now sadly forgotten his name is a brilliant and knowledgeable young man. He made the exploration of the late legend's space memorable for me. Kalakuta museum is a must see place for every true lover of the work of Prophet Fela Anikulapo Kuti. After the tour, there is a nicely set up restaurant/bar where you can have a delicious taste of Nigerian cuisine and also explore the Ikeja skyline. Meanwhile, don't forget to get souvenirs from their store. The Tees and face caps are a must go-home-with. This place comes highly recommended. I wish you a pleasant adventure of the Kuti's!

I'm an absolute Fela fan, but I think some things are missing from this museum experience. First off, there's no obvious entrance fee, the entrance fee you pay is whatever the tour guide says. Also, there's no ambience, some soft Fela playing in the background of his museum would be nice. The gift shop is very disorganized. The third floor exhibit is somewhat pointless. But, I did enjoy the rooftop bar...I think that's a nice addition. I would still recommend a visit to this museum, only if you're a genuine Fela fan, else you will be disappointed. Oh, and the security guard at the gate might need some customer service training.

When we arrived, we paid the entrance fee. the tour guide was not present. So, we went to the rooftop restaurant and had a delicious lunch. Afterwards, we went back downstairs and the museum guide gave us a detailed tour of the museum. I loved the visit to the museum. I had never heard of Fela Kuti. So, on that beautiful day the guide, inside the museum, taught me everything about him. We were 6 people in the group. I highly recommend the tour and lunch at the rooftop restaurant.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

It was incredible to see how a part of the rich history of Fela's life is conserved. We started the tour from the ground floor, which opened with his old album covers, most of which were designed by Lemi Ghariokwu. It was interesting to walk through pieces of Fela's life, see his old room, his clothes and collection of shoes. The family portraits and snippets of his life on stage, were especially memorable. There's ample parking space, a rooftop bar, where I taught an art class (FUN!), and Fela's final resting place sits beautifully within the compound.

Kalakuta museum was very historical in learning about Fela's life and history. It was good to see the journey of activism and his musical history as well. There were a lot of art in the house which I loved There was art from a Fela event where the winner's art is showcased in the Museum. Overall, this was a great initiative to keep and preserve Fela's history. His musical instruments and clothes are also available. Man really had style!!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

An awesome experience in the museum. We had the privilege of a tour around the building with detailed explanations of every poster, painting, pictures and sourrdings. It is the last place the legendary Fela lived before he died (his room remains intact) and couple of rooms have been refurbished as rooms for rent with he original music plaque on the walls of each room...epic... check out some pictures below though I can't explain about each as I learnt via the tour...

Here lies a wealth of history, knowledge and culture. I learnt so many things I had no clue of before. I saw Fela’s actual room he lived in before he died, his clothes, shoes and panties. I’m glad a friend dragged me here, I just wish it was better maintained and also had better lighting. The museum also doubles as a boutique hotel with a few rooms. Isn’t that something? It’s a great place to visit and definitely a tourist attraction in Lagos.

I was glad to be at this museum, glad to know there's a museum that has been erected to honor Fele K..Yet, the museum seems incomplete. I think it could benefit from being an interactive type of museum. A more refined polished look, befitting the legendary Afrobeats king is needed. At the end of the tour, l was glad to have met Fele's son at the museum...
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Kalakuta museum is a must go for any Fela fan, and for those who want to know more about him. It was a really wonderful experience, kudos to the tour guide, he gave detailed explanation and stories about everything and anything Fela-related. The highlight was seeing Fela's room , the way he left it before he died, amazing view I tell you.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

You want to know a little about Fela before visiting this place, the parking space is a contained area. The museum is a two storey building with a roof top. It’s 1,000 naira for entry. The tour guide is well explanatory and has a wide knowledge about Fela. Several art works, pictures, his room, clothes, shoes, & documents were displayed. People lodge there & there’s a roof top to relax with food & drinks.

I enjoyed visiting the museum, which was Fela's last home on earth. It's a well preserved monument to Nigeria's greatest musician. You can learn a lot about Fela and his family by visiting the museum from his many wives to his multiple incarcerations, the history is all there. Fela was legendary and I'm glad there's something as solid as this to remember him by.

Kalakuta Museum as it's popularity called is the last known residential home of the Late Afrobeat Legend, Fela Anikulapo kuti. The Museum holds the life history of his life as an activist, a Father and as a musician. Now its just been upgraded with a boutique 5 Room Hotel. So now tourist can spend a night or more inside this historical Museum.

This experience was definitely the highlight of my Lagos trip. Fela Kuti’s music is so unreal and the fact that we got a special guided tour in his house was so crazy. Trust me, I am still pinching myself. It would have been even better if they played background music of his tracks as the tour went on. Wishful thinking …

Kalakuta museum was once the house where Fela Anikulapo Kuti lived before his death in 1997. It has been converted to a museum now and served as tourist attractions for people far and wide to come so they could learn about the life of fela,it has a rooftop bar for relaxation purposes with friends and families.

Interesting place if you want to know about Fela. The tour guide did a good job of taking through every piece of information and answered all questions. Love how the place have this old smell but still cool (working AC). After the tour, you can relax at the rooftop bar, order food, drinks and enjoy the view.

Located in Fela’s former house, the museum tells you the story of Fela’s music, and unusual lifestyle. When I visited Seun Kuti's band was rehearsing in the studio, that made it all the more fascinating.....make sure you visit the rooftop terrace ...will recommend visiting late afternoon if possible.......

Nostalgic! Am currently watching FINDING FELA on Netflix. It's only fitting I visit where it all began since am in Lagos. Note: The museum fee is 3,000 Naira per adult. I didn't know that. There was a tour guide.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Amazing art , interesting structure(building) . In relation to staff there is no real structure, the tour guide was unavailable and his replacement was unaware of some names,dates and provenace In summery It was a fun experience I would highly recommend a visit Ps. Do not forget to pet the cats

I’m so happy I was able to visit Fela’s house the tour guide was very informative about every detail. I learned a lot more about the musician after this tour I don’t want to give out too much info or post to many picture but I can tell you if your looking for something to do this is it!

I loved staying at this wonderful and very important place. My room was lovely and had special little touches...Nice soap, kettle etc. Staff were very helpful, kind and efficient. I felt very privileged and lucky to have stayed here. The museum hotel is well run. A great experience.

Lovely hotel, If you're making reservations on bookings.com, make sure you confirm the price from the hotel ahead of time so that you will budget well because there is discrepancies with bookings price (little difference though). All in all, excellent services and nice hotel.

The Kalakutu Museum is a splendid destination for a visit, offering exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality, and an outstanding team, making it an all-around perfect experience.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Management needs to be commended they seem to be doing a good job. The customer experience, the ambience has been improved from the car park to the lounge. well done.... You also have that very hard working single staff serving who deserves some bonus✌ …

It is an exciting walk through the life of one of humanity's most outstanding social critics and musicians. Perhaps not a surprise to many, but I didn't know that Fela founded a political party. So, reading his party’s manifesto was a pleasant surprise!

The tour guide guide is very very good... She takes you on a journey through the museum of which you will get to know more about Fela his lifestyle and his family
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

I had one of my best experiences in Ikeja Nigeria at Kalakuta Museum, I would highly recommend to everyone who is in Lagos or coming to Ikeja to visit this place , rich with the history of Fela Kuti
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

Fela's house turned museum. Quite small but very great guides. Rich in culture and heritage, showcases the beauty of Fela's life. The gate fee is quite cheap, about 500 naira. And they also have a restaurant/bar on the penthouse. A must see

It was awesome for the first few times, but recently the management as been on the roll due to some inappropriate behaviors from some customers. it is absolutely rude and wrong to discriminate your entire customer base due to the action of

Fela was an inspirational musical figure. The museum is nice and well organized but does not appear to display his musical career as much as I'd expect. The focus appeared to be be only on his personal life / upbringing, which is nice to

Great place with great view of the one ans only Legendary Afro music, activist FELA ANIKULAPO KUTI blessed memory.. Lovely place to visit
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

I enjoyed hearing the story of Fela, his phenomenal music and legacy. It would be great if the museum could include a video/sound booth with VR headsets where guests can experience some of this. The feeling would be soo much better.

The museum itself is great but as soon as the staff saw us they doubled the entry fees. And the account we transfered it to was a private account and not affiliated to the museum. The staff is ripping the Kuti Family off. Very sad.

Had a good time there. The tour was nice as I didn't know much about Fela Kuti. The tour guide assumes you do so remind him if you don't. It was interesting to see his home and learn about his life. #letsguide

Fela's apartment before he passed on. The tour was nice, I heard first hand information about the great Fela Anikulapokuti himself. You will in some weird way feel his presence while in this place.

Cannot wait to go back wow one of my most memorable experiences EVER ; tour guide was very knowledgeable the place itself was mind blowing & meeting Kunle was totally unexpected. I am so grateful!

I loved the Murals and the artworks, A lot of effort went into preserving the memory of a great and Influential artist. Also the terrace at the top is a pretty cool place to relax drink and eat.

What a wonderful experience. I highly recommend the bar on the roof. The food is excellent. Great vibe.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

It was a beautiful experience. A great place to visit if you enjoy history The tour guide really made it fun
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Visited on a weekday afternoon, so understandably quiet. We had a tour guide which was very helpful.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I love going to the rooftop of fela house, it is a very chilled and quite place for hangout or just work. They have an in house cook. The food isn't all that great but very affordable

My visit was quite pleasant. On site, well versed tour guide. Friendly staffs. It was a time ⌚ travel experience. Loved it
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Kalakuta museum home of the late afrobeat king FELA ANIKULAPO KUTI It is preserved for tourist to know more about the he afrobeat king, It has a nice rooftop bar More

The rooftop lounge/bar is an unlikely but functional alternative to a work space. And easy to transition. Will update this once I’ve gone inside the museum itself.

A very beautiful and attractive place to be The arts picture of a music legend and historical monuments he shared with us afro beat music lover still live More

Kalakuta Museum home of Afro Beat Legend...... it's nice to be there
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Fela's home turned into a museum. Everything you need to learn about the legend. From his clothes to shoes to pictures to his piano. Small but interesting

We had to wait a while for a tour guide but when we were paired with a tour guide it was worth it. A must see for all Fela fans
Visited on
Weekday

Learnt soo much about Fela , we had the chance to also meet his Son, Kunle Kuti, who gave us the tour and showed immense kindness to my friends and I.

Lovely place. Houses the tales of the legendary Fela Anikulapo Kuti. The rooftop has a wonderful view and a beautiful setting with a hammock chair!

A fine experience I recommend it for everyone visiting Lagos.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The best experience everrrrrrrrrrrrr❤️!..The history of Fela was excellently told and we met his son K.Kuti who warmly welcomed all of us .

Well located at a safe place in ikeja Easy to reach....more like hospitality arena....rooms...food and drinks are sold at moderate price

Excellent stay. Where else can you meet and conversate with the son of a legend! Historic and magical. Feels like home. Great food.

Brings back some memories.. Nice place.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

It's a nice place to visit in Lagos
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

A good place to relax, chill and unwind. Beautiful and historical paintings of the legendary Felakuti makes it inviting.

Great place to chill. The roof top is airy and it's lovely at night
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

Loved the stories of what Kalakuta entails. Was a great experience. If you don't love art you'll find the place boring

Great place to learn about the Legend, Fela. After the tour of the museum, you can have a drink at the rooftop bar .

A visit to this museum opens up an opportunity to experience life and times of the legendary Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

I enjoyed the tour, the tour guide was nice and explained in details. Would visit when next I'm in lagos again.

This was Fela's home, as of his death...Great life history of the Afro beat inventor too. I loved the tour.

It's a very nice mesuem all about fela and they have a soft top bar.its a great place to be …

Good experience, Get to learn a lot about this legend. A cool place to hang out and discuss. Nice serene.

Awesome! particularly proud of the Kuti family for sharing the legacy of the great FELA with the world.

It is very calm. The scenery is also very good. The rooftop comes with the chill and 402 all the way

You get to see the place Fela lived and also learn some things that you likely didn't know about him

A serene atmosphere to hang out with friends and family. Lots of history about the legend himself

Fela's residence kept in pristine condition. 20 years now. His base while alive. His burial site.

I personally had a great experience from the museum to the rooftop restaurant. I highly recommend

Iconic place detailing the life of an icon, with wonderful curators and a beautiful outlook.

The ambience at the bar is lively - with good local drinks on offer (palm wine especially).

The place is reloaded. Wearing a new look and fresh positive energy. Pls check it out

Here you get to see the life's and times of Fela Kuti preserved for memories …

Nice place to have relaxation. Check the place out for your nest vacation

A lovely place with so much memories of the great Fela Anikulapo Kuti

Rich history! My father would be envious I visited this place …

Rich in history and amazing cuisine at the roof top lounge.

Really nice ambience, calm environment and great food!

It has very cool artifacts and nice place at large

Legendary...the home to Fela Anikulapo ✊ …

A must-see for any fan of Fela Kuti’s music!

Weekend and any other holiday u are welcome

Great place to be and meet its expectation

Beautiful experience. Enjoyed my visit

It's clean and tells you about Fela