If you are looking for a place in Nigeria that blends rich history with the everyday buzz of life, Tafawa Balewa Square, or TBS as we fondly call it, is the spot to explore. Sitting proudly on Lagos Island, this 14.5 hectare ceremonial ground is more than just open space, it is a living piece of Naija’s story.

Named after our first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, TBS has seen it all, from colonial horse races to the joyous day we waved off the Union Jack. Whether you are a Lagosian born and bred or a visitor wanting to soak up some proper Naija vibes, this guide takes you through its history, attractions, and why it remains a big deal in our bustling city.

A Journey Back in Time

TBS started life way back in 1859 as the Lagos Race Course, thanks to Oba Dosunmu handing over the land to colonial rulers. Back then, it was all about horse racing, football, and cricket, with the track stretching about a mile long. It was the place to be, hosting Empire Day parades and school march pasts under British rule.

Fast forward to 1 October 1960, and this very ground became the stage for Nigeria’s independence, where Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa gave a speech that echoed through history as the Union Jack came down and our green white green flag went up. By 1972, General Yakubu Gowon’s government gave it a massive facelift, turning the old racecourse into the modern Tafawa Balewa Square we know today. Named after the late Sir Abubakar, who led us into nationhood, it stands as a tribute to our freedom and grit.

Where It Sits in Lagos

You will find TBS right in the thick of Lagos Island, boxed in by Awolowo Road, Cable Street, Force Road, and Catholic Mission Street. The towering 26 storey Independence House looms nearby, a reminder of its central role. It is smack in the commercial heart of Lagos, close to landmarks like the National Museum and Onikan Stadium.

Getting there is a breeze if you are in the city, just jump on a danfo or keke from places like CMS or Ikoyi, and you are there in no time. For those coming from farther afield, like Ikeja or the mainland, a BRT bus from the TBS terminal will sort you out. It is Lagos at its loudest and proudest, a spot where history and hustle meet every day.

What Makes TBS Special

TBS is not just empty land, it is packed with features that tell Naija’s story and keep the place buzzing. Here is the full gist of what you can see and do:

1. The Grand Entrance Gate
   Step through the main gate and you are greeted by four giant white horses rearing up high, with seven red eagles perched above. These are not just for show, the horses stand for strength, and the eagles nod to dignity, straight from Nigeria’s coat of arms. It is a proper Naija welcome that sets the tone for what is inside.

1. Remembrance Arcade
   This spot honours our fallen heroes from World War I, World War II, and the Nigerian Civil War. With memorials carved in stone, it is a quiet corner to reflect on the sacrifices that shaped us. It is a sombre but powerful piece of the square’s soul.

1. Independence House
   Rising 26 storeys tall, this building was once Nigeria’s highest when it opened in 1963. It is a concrete symbol of our break from colonial rule, standing watch over the square. Even today, it houses offices and adds a modern edge to the historic vibe.

1. Cricket Oval
   The Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval is a gem for sports lovers. Known as Nigeria’s “home of cricket,” it got a big upgrade in 2022, switching from concrete to a 10 strip turf that meets global standards. It has hosted international matches, like the 2022 Nigeria Invitational Women’s T20I Tournament, proving Naija’s game is strong.

1. Shopping and Business Hubs
   TBS is not all about history, it is a commercial hotspot too. You will find shopping centres, airline ticketing offices, and eateries dishing out jollof rice and suya. It is a place to shop, work, or just chill with a plate of something tasty.

1. BRT Bus Terminal
   The square doubles as a major transport hub, with a sleek BRT terminal pumping out buses to Ikorodu, Berger, and Fadeyi. These state of the art rides come with air conditioning and USB ports, making your Lagos commute a bit less of a wahala. Fares hover around 200 to 500 naira, depending on your stop.

1. Event Spaces
   With room for 55000 people, TBS is the go to spot for big gatherings. From Independence Day celebrations to music jams, religious rallies, and trade fairs, it is always alive with action. If you grew up in Lagos in the 70s, you might remember those rainy October 1st parades, pure nostalgia.

Why Nigerians Love It

TBS is woven into the fabric of Naija life. It is where we marked our freedom in 1960, with Tafawa Balewa’s voice ringing out to a cheering crowd. Today, it hosts Democracy Day, cultural festivals, and even the odd political rally. Lagosians call it “Race Course” with affection, a nod to its old days, while newcomers marvel at its mix of past and present. Families bring kids to soak up history, couples snap prewedding pics under the horses, and traders hustle in its shops. It is a melting pot of Naija spirit, where every visit feels like a connection to something bigger.

Getting There and Around

If you are in Lagos, TBS is easy to reach. From the mainland, grab a BRT from Oshodi or Yaba, or take a taxi if you are splashing a bit more cash. On the island, danfos and kekes zip you there from VI or Obalende for a few hundred naira. The square is open daily, but check for events, as it can get packed during holidays or big shows. Parking is available if you are driving, though Lagos traffic means you might prefer public transport. Once you are there, it is all walkable, just wear comfy shoes to roam the grounds.

Why It Matters to Naija

TBS is more than a landmark, it is a symbol of who we are. That independence moment in 1960 kicked off our journey as a nation, and the square keeps that fire burning. It pulls in tourists who want to see where it all began, boosting Lagos’s vibe and wallet. For us locals, it is a reminder of our resilience, from colonial days to now. The cricket oval adds a modern twist, showing we can flex on the world stage too. It is history you can touch, a place that ties our past to our hustle today.

Challenges and the Future

TBS is not without its wahala. Over the years, parts have worn down, with environmental issues like flooding and neglect creeping in. The iconic gates have taken a beating, and some call for better upkeep. Rumours of leasing or selling bits have popped up, though officials say it is still ours. There is hope, though, plans float around to turn it into a world class tourism site, with upgrades to match the best out there. If we push for it, TBS could shine even brighter, keeping its legacy intact for the next generation.

Tips for Your Visit

Planning to swing by? Mornings are quieter if you want to explore in peace, while evenings light up during events. Entry is usually free unless there is a special gig, but bring small naira for snacks or transport. Snap pics of the horses and eagles, they are Instagram gold, and grab a guide if you can, they will spill all the juicy details. If you are with family, the open space is great for kids to run around. Just watch out for Lagos hustle, hold your bag tight and enjoy the vibe.

The Bigger Picture

Tafawa Balewa Square is Naija’s heartbeat in Lagos, a place where history meets the now. It tells the story of our fight for freedom, our love for sport, and our knack for turning spaces into something special. Every horse statue, every bronze plaque, every bus rolling out is a piece of us. In 2025, as Nigeria keeps growing, TBS stands as a bridge between where we have been and where we are going. It is not just Lagos’s pride, it is a global nod to Naija’s spirit, showing the world we have got roots and wings.

Final Thoughts

Tafawa Balewa Square is not just a place to pass through, it is a spot to feel Naija’s pulse. From its racecourse beginnings to its independence glory, it carries our story with every step you take across its grounds. Whether you are here for the history, the cricket, or just to soak up Lagos life, TBS delivers. So next time you are in town, do not dull, swing by, snap some pics, and soak in the vibes. It is Naija’s past, present, and future all rolled into one, a proper gem that keeps shining no matter the years. Come see why we call it home!