Sanwo-Olu to Welcome Dr. Julius Marcus-Garvey and Returning Diaspora Africans
What Bagadry has, no place in the world has it.
The Door of Return is a symbol of the African Renaissance, serving as a pan-African initiative aimed at ushering in a new era of cooperation between Africa and its diaspora in the 21st century.
The ancient city of Badagry in Lagos State is preparing to host the 'Fourth Door of Return,' a significant event designed to provide a historical, spiritual, and economic experience that extends a warm welcome to hundreds of diaspora Africans returning to their motherland.
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Dr Julius Marcus Garvey Jnr, son of foremost civil rights leader, Marcus Garvey are amongst the dignitaries that will ceremoniously walk through the symbolic 'door of return' to receive the returnees
The Fourth Door of Return programs are scheduled to take place from October 19 to 21 in Badagry, located within the Lagos West Senatorial District of Lagos State. At a press conference hosted at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja, the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, underscored that this event carries significant economic and spiritual weight. It is not only of value to Lagos residents but also to the diaspora community. A diverse range of activities has been meticulously planned to promote Lagos' rich tourist attractions and cultural heritage on the global stage.
Honorable Dabiri-Erewa expressed deep appreciation for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's unwavering support for the Door of Return event, emphasizing its unique and transformative nature. “It is not merely an occasion to recollect past suffering but also to celebrate triumphs.” she said.
Participants in this event will engage in a symbolic, emotional journey, embarking on a long walk that leads them to the 'Point of No Return.' This experience will be deeply moving for the pilgrims, connecting them to the concept of the Joy of Return. As they return to the place where their ancestors were taken away as slaves over 400 years ago, they will be received with the dignity of kings and queens.
The event holds the promise of being not just the biggest tourism event in Badagry, Lagos, but also throughout Nigeria. Badagry, with its unique historical significance, offers something unparalleled in the world. It aims to showcase the rich history of Badagry and its invaluable contribution to tourism and culture.
Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, spoke passionately about unveiling the hidden treasures of Badagry and Lagos State to the world through the Fourth Door of Return program. She acknowledged the inhumane treatment suffered by ancestors who were taken out of Africa over 400 years ago and further emphasized the significance of everyone participating in this experience to fully grasp the importance of embracing our identity as champions.
Benson-Awoyinka shared her personal journey at the door and commended the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration for its dedicated commitment to restoring the joy of every black person.
Additionally, Hon. Solomon Bonu, the Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Tourism and Culture, reassured that lawmakers would offer their support within the boundaries of the law for this remarkable event.
