Updated 28 September 2026 · Travo.ng
Quick answer
If you are locked out of your home, office or car, or need a lock changed or a new key cut, you can request a locksmith through Travo at any time by booking an emergency service online or on WhatsApp (+234 916 335 2137). Prices depend on the job, the lock and your location, so ask for a quote before work starts. Our 2025 listing put basic lockouts from ₦5,000; confirm the current price when you book. If there are signs of a break-in, or you feel unsafe, call the police on 112 first.
Lost keys, a snapped key in the door, a jammed gate padlock or a car locked with the keys inside: lock problems rarely happen at a convenient time. This guide explains the locksmith services you can request, what affects the cost, how booking works, and how to protect yourself from rogue “locksmiths” who overcharge or damage your property.
Locksmith services you can request
| Service | What it covers | Typical situations |
|---|---|---|
| Home lockout | Opening a locked door with minimal damage | Keys lost or left inside, door slammed shut |
| Lock change or rekey | Replacing the lock or its cylinder so old keys no longer work | New tenancy, lost keys, staff leaving |
| Key cutting and duplicates | Copying door, padlock and cabinet keys | Spare keys for family or staff |
| Broken key extraction | Removing a snapped key and repairing the lock | Key broken in the door or padlock |
| Car lockout | Opening a vehicle without damaging it | Keys locked in the car |
| Car key replacement | Cutting and, where possible, programming a replacement key or remote | Lost car keys |
| Office and commercial locks | Door locks, filing cabinets, safes (access only) | Offices, shops, warehouses |
| Security upgrades | Fitting stronger locks, deadbolts and gate locks | After a break-in or a move |
Availability depends on the locksmiths near you and the type of lock. Some modern car keys with immobiliser chips may need a dealer or specialist.
Where the service is available
You can send a request from anywhere in Nigeria. How quickly someone can reach you depends on your area, the time of day and traffic, so ask for an estimated arrival time before you confirm.
How much does a locksmith cost?
There is no fixed price list for locksmith work in Nigeria. The price depends on:
- The job. Opening a standard door is cheaper than replacing a high-security lock or programming a car key.
- Parts. A new cylinder, lock or key blank is charged on top of labour, and imported security locks cost more.
- Time of call. Late-night and public-holiday call-outs usually cost more.
- Distance. Travel costs are higher when fuel is expensive. Petrol was about ₦1,385–₦1,456 per litre at NNPC stations in late September 2026.
- Vehicle make. Car keys with chips or smart remotes are far dearer than basic metal keys.
Our 2025 listing started basic lockout services from about ₦5,000. We have not re-checked that figure for 2026, so treat it as a guide and ask for a firm quote before any work starts.
Locked out? Request help now
Book an emergency service on Travo, tell us whether it is a home, office or car lock, and share your location. For the fastest response, message us on WhatsApp.
How to book a locksmith with Travo
- Open the booking page and choose emergency service, or message us on WhatsApp.
- Describe the problem. Say whether it is a door, gate, padlock, safe or car, and add a photo of the lock if you can.
- Share your exact location and a phone number you can be reached on.
- Get the quote and estimated arrival time, and confirm only if you agree.
- Prove ownership when the locksmith arrives: ID showing the address, a tenancy agreement or vehicle papers.
- Check the work, test the lock and all keys, then pay.
Safety tips: avoiding rogue locksmiths
- Agree the price first. Be wary of anyone who will not quote until the door is open.
- Expect to prove ownership. A genuine locksmith will ask; one who does not is a warning sign.
- Do not let a stranger “drill first”. Most standard lockouts can be opened without destroying the lock.
- Keep the old lock or cylinder if it is replaced, so you can see what was changed.
- After a burglary, report to the police before any lock work, so evidence is not disturbed. The general emergency number in Nigeria is 112.
- Lost car keys? Check your vehicle documents are in order, as you may need them to prove ownership. See how to verify vehicle documents.
Why use Travo for locksmith services?
- One place for emergencies. The same booking link covers breakdowns, towing, fuel delivery and more.
- Quote before work. Agree the price before anyone touches your lock.
- Round-the-clock requests. You can book online or on WhatsApp at any hour; availability at night depends on your area.
- A written record. Booking online or on WhatsApp leaves a record of what was agreed.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a locksmith cost in Nigeria?
It depends on the job, parts, time and distance. Our 2025 listing started basic lockouts from about ₦5,000, but car keys and lock replacements cost more. Agree a quote before work begins.
Can a locksmith open my car without damaging it?
In most cases, yes. Trained locksmiths use entry tools rather than force. Replacing chipped or smart keys may need a specialist or dealer.
What do I need to show the locksmith?
Proof that the property or vehicle is yours: ID with the address, a tenancy or utility document, or vehicle papers.
Is the service really available 24/7?
You can send a request at any time. Whether a locksmith can reach you at night depends on your area, so confirm the arrival time when you book.
Should I change my locks after losing my keys?
Yes, if the keys could be linked to your address. Rekeying or replacing the cylinder stops the old keys from working.
What if I think someone broke in?
Leave the scene undisturbed and call the police on 112 first. Arrange lock repairs after they have attended.
Related guides
- Emergency services in Nigeria: police, fire and medical
- Car towing service in Lagos
- Emergency petrol delivery
- Number plate replacement in Nigeria
Read more about how we keep bookings safe on our safety page.
Sources: List of emergency telephone numbers (112 for Nigeria); Legit.ng NNPC pump prices (24 Sep 2026); Travo.ng locksmith service listing (2025). Fares and prices change often — confirm before you travel or pay.
