Makoko is a water-slum area in Lagos found across the third mainland bridge. It is regarded as the Venice of Africa. Many of the houses in Makoko are built on water with hardwoods. The hardwoods are supported by wood stilts that are planted deep into the waterbed. The rest of the houses are built on a swampy area of land.

Historically, Makoko was founded in the 18th century by immigrants from Badagry, Togo and Benin Republic.

The name Makoko is a Yoruba word 'Mu Akoko' which can literally be translated as 'Pick Akoko'. Akoko in Yoruba is a type of leaf that is traditionally used during chieftancy coronation. Akoko leaves are said to comfortably grow in abundance on the swampy land in Makoko, till the present day.

The popular languages in Makoko are Yoruba, Egun, French and English.

Transportation in this part of Lagos is by canoe,The main occupation is fishing. Residents also engage in other commercial activities like sawmills, firewood and salt making.