Abstract
This study examines the integration of Yoruba motifs in the design of civic centers on Lagos Island to strengthen cultural identity, enhance spatial functionality, and promote socio-cultural sustainability. Although Lagos Island is rooted in Yoruba heritage, there is a disconnect between civic buildings and indigenous culture, largely due to globalisation. Through a literature review and case studies of the John Randle Centre, Freedom Park, and the Nike Art Gallery, the research illustrates how Yoruba architectural principles such as courtyard organization, symbolic ornamentation, and climate-responsive design can enrich modern civic architecture. The findings indicate that incorporating these motifs can enhance user engagement, reinforce collective memory, and foster a sense of belonging. In an environment threatened by commercialisation and infrastructure demands, integrating Yoruba concepts provides a pathway to preserving culture while supporting sustainable urban development. Ultimately, the study emphasises that culturally responsive civic architecture can serve as both a landmark and a platform for social interaction and community cohesion. It concludes with recommendations for architects and policymakers in Nigeria.