2023 Badagry Door of Return Festival to become Nigeria’s top tourism event

By Iyojo Ameh

Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), has voiced her optimism that the upcoming 2023 4th Edition of the Badagry Door of Return festival, scheduled for October 19th to 21st, has the potential to become one of Nigeria’s most significant tourism events.

During a joint press conference held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Lagos, Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the historical and cultural importance of the Door of Return.

She emphasized that this event signifies the joy of returning to the motherland and aims to welcome back brothers and sisters who were taken away as slaves over 400 years ago, reestablishing their connections historically, spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

The festival will comprise visits to historical sites, captivating theatrical performances, and a diverse range of activities spanning from October 19th to October 20th, 2023. The grand opening of the Door is scheduled for October 21st, 2023, with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu set to lead the historic ceremony for the Diaspora Returnees, alongside Dr. Julius Marcus Garvey, Jr.

Toke Benson, the Commissioner for Tourism, Art, and Culture, affirmed the Lagos State Government’s unwavering commitment to the success of the Badagry Door of Return Festival.

Also present at the press conference were notable figures including Solomon Bonu (House Committee Chairman on Tourism), Idris Aregbe (Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture), Dr. Tunde Meseweku (Chairman, Nigeria Tourism Practitioners Association), and Jermaine Sanwo-Olu (SSA Diaspora Affairs, Lagos State).

The inaugural edition of the Badagry Door of Return, supported by the Lagos State Government, made history as the first event of its kind in Africa. Unfortunately, subsequent editions were temporarily halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2023 edition promises not only to celebrate cultural heritage but also to invigorate Nigeria’s tourism industry, offering a unique opportunity for individuals to reconnect with their roots and delve into the rich history of Badagry.