By: Manoah Kikekon
Lagos State’s New Landmark Set to Boost Heritage Tourism and Diaspora Reconnection
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| Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Door of Return |
Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, National Vice President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) for the South West Region, has praised Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for initiating the construction of the Permanent Door of Return Tower in Badagry.
As an indigene of Badagry and former Supervisor for Tourism in Badagry Local Government, Hon. Apata emphasized that the project will revamp and rejuvenate tourism in the historic town, positioning it as a key destination for cultural and heritage tourism in Nigeria.
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Located at the High Chief Mobee Waterfront, near the iconic First Storey Building in Boekoh Quarters, the Door of Return Tower is set to become a global attraction, particularly for people of African descent seeking to reconnect with their ancestral roots.
The project carries profound symbolism, representing welcome, reconciliation, and homecoming, Africans in Diaspora.
This initiative aligns with similar efforts like Ghana’s "Year of Return", which successfully drew thousands from the African diaspora to explore their heritage.
Badagry, a town with deep historical significance in the transatlantic slave trade, stands to benefit immensely from this development. "The Door of Return Tower is expected to Attract international tourists, especially from the African diaspora. Enhance cultural exchanges and heritage tourism. Stimulate local businesses, creating jobs and boosting the economy," Apata said.
Hon. Apata expressed optimism that the project will position Badagry as a top-tier tourism hub, complementing existing attractions like the Badagry Heritage Museum, Slave Port, and Vlekete Slave Market.