The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, in collaboration with Badagry Local Government and the Confederation of Badagry Tourism Practitioners, joined the global community to commemorate the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition. The solemn event took place on Saturday at the historic Badagry Heritage Museum.
Observed annually on August 23, the day recalls the Haitian Revolution of 1791 in Saint-Domingue (modern-day Haiti), which marked a defining moment in the struggle against slavery and the transatlantic slave trade.
Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State Government, Honourable Solomon Bonu, Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to leveraging Badagry’s rich history to boost cultural tourism, intercultural dialogue, and sustainable economic growth. He noted that Lagos would continue to support the revival of Badagry’s tourism sector, while urging stakeholders to work together in transforming the division into a globally recognised hub of remembrance and heritage.
Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, described Badagry as “Nigeria’s Jerusalem,” citing its role as a major slave route in West Africa and its enduring significance in global heritage. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and UNESCO for their continued support in preserving the town’s cultural legacy.
Professor Adejumo Tunji of the University of Lagos delivered a commemorative lecture highlighting the importance of community-based tourism. He called for collective action to preserve Badagry’s historical sites and reposition the town as a global cultural tourism destination. According to him, transforming the painful memories of the slave trade into platforms of healing and cultural pride would not only preserve heritage but also drive economic empowerment for generations to come.
A goodwill message from UNESCO’s Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, reminded participants of the need to honour the victims of slavery and celebrate their resilience while working to build societies rooted in justice and equality.
The commemoration featured a symbolic torchlight (fitila) session, cultural performances, and reflections by traditional leaders on the role of indigenous belief systems in sustaining identity and resilience. Traditional rulers, cultural troupes, and community leaders joined the event, pledging to work with Lagos State and UNESCO in positioning Badagry as a global hub of remembrance, culture, and heritage.
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