Badagry, an ancient city within Lagos State, is set to host a momentous event known as the ‘Fourth Door of Return,’ which carries historical, spiritual, and economic significance.
This event, taking place next Saturday, anticipates the return of numerous diaspora Africans to their homeland.
A noteworthy aspect of this occasion will feature the participation of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, who will symbolically pass through the “Door of Return” to warmly welcome the Returnees. Dr. Julius Marcus-Garvey will lead this procession.
The ‘Fourth Door of Return’ festivities are scheduled from October 19 to 21 in Badagry, a region located within the Lagos West Senatorial District of Lagos State.
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), shared during a press conference at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Ikeja that the ‘Fourth Door of Return’ event promises to bring not only economic, physical, and spiritual benefits to Lagos residents but also to people residing in the diaspora. She emphasized that a variety of activities have been organized, and the presence of distinguished individuals at the event will shine a positive light on Lagos’ tourist attractions and culture on a global scale.
Dabiri-Erewa expressed her appreciation for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s substantial support for the ‘Fourth Door of Return’ event, considering it a unique and impactful occurrence that will bring about economic, physical, and spiritual advantages.
This event symbolizes a return to the doorway of joy, peace, prosperity, and progress.
She stated, “I want to commend Governor Sanwo-Olu for the tremendous support for the Fourth Door of Return ceremony.
What Badagry has is unparalleled, and the ‘Door of Return’ promises to be a monumental tourism event, not only for Badagry but also for Lagos and Nigeria.”
The ‘Door of Return’ concept involves the reception of our brothers and sisters who were forcibly taken as slaves more than 400 years ago.
It is a profound, historical, spiritual, emotional, and physical journey for the pilgrims—a reconnection with the “Joy of Return.”
The pilgrims will undertake a significant walk through the path to the “Point of No Return” and then return to be received as royalty in the very place where their ancestors were once taken away as slaves. This event is one that everyone should partake in.
On October 21, when you attend the ‘Door of Return’ ceremony in Lagos, you will witness the extraordinary cultural and historical richness that Badagry has to offer, making it an unparalleled tourist destination globally.
Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, stressed that the State Government is wholeheartedly committed to unveiling the hidden treasures of Badagry and Lagos to the world through the ‘Fourth Door of Return’ program.
She also expressed deep empathy for the inhumane treatment that the ancestors faced over 400 years ago, emphasizing the administration’s dedication, under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to restore the joy of every black individual.
Hon. Solomon Bonu, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Tourism and Culture, assured that the lawmakers would provide every lawful support to ensure the success of this significant event.
