The short answer
For most problems, start with a consultant paediatrician, who examines the whole child, tests before treating, and refers to a specialist when it helps. Go straight to a paediatric specialist when there is already a diagnosis that needs one: sickle cell disease to a haematologist, a heart murmur or hole in the heart to a cardiologist, seizures without fever or delayed development to a neurologist, growth or puberty concerns or diabetes to an endocrinologist. A child who is seriously unwell right now needs an emergency department first.
See a paediatrician, from ₦50,000Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
What a good first visit looks like
Whoever you see, expect:
- A full examination, not only of the part that hurts
- Weight and height measured and plotted
- Tests before treatment where they change the plan, such as a malaria test before antimalarials
- A clear explanation and the specific signs that mean come back sooner
Which specialist, for what
- Paediatric haematologist: sickle cell disease, anaemia that does not improve, easy bruising or bleeding
- Paediatric cardiologist: heart murmur, breathlessness or sweating with feeds, fainting
- Paediatric neurologist: seizures without fever, delayed sitting, walking or speech, weakness
- Paediatric endocrinologist: short stature, early or late puberty, diabetes, thyroid problems
- Paediatric rheumatologist: a joint swollen for weeks, morning stiffness, recurrent fever with rash
- Paediatric surgeon: hernias, undescended testis, hypospadias and other operations
What to bring
Your child's health card and vaccination record, previous results and scans, a list of medicines, and, for seizures or odd episodes, a short phone video. Write down your questions before you go.
What it costs on Mezo
One fixed price, paid online.
Common questions
How much is a paediatrician in Lagos?
A first consultation with a consultant paediatrician at Haven Paediatrics, Ikeja is from ₦50,000, confirmed when you book.
Do I need a referral to see a specialist?
No, you can book directly through Mezo. A letter from your child's doctor helps the specialist.
Can I book for my child from abroad?
Yes. You book and pay online, and a coordinator arranges the appointment with the family in Lagos.
The procedures
Related health guides
More patient guides
Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Fever in under 5s: assessment and initial management (NG143). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
Links last checked 22 October 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Where your centre's instructions differ from this guide, follow theirs.