By: Manoah Kikekon
In a move to reposition Badagry as a premier global heritage hub, a Lagos State delegation concluded a transformative two-day strategic working visit to the Republic of Benin on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. The mission, led by the Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Solomon Saanu Bonu, alongside the Commissioner for Tourism, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, marks a new era in cross-border cultural diplomacy.
The visit was specifically designed to study the Republic of Benin’s successful "Heritage Corridor" and adapt international best practices to the ongoing redevelopment of Badagry’s historical sites. By bridging the gap between Lagos and Cotonou, the state government aims to create a seamless West African tourism circuit that honors the shared history of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
The delegation featured a rare blend of legislative, executive, and technical expertise. Joining Hon. Bonu and Commissioner Benson-Awoyinka were the Special Adviser to the Governor on Works, Engr. Adekunle Olayinka, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila.
To ensure the technical feasibility of upcoming infrastructure projects in Badagry, the team also included Engr. Salim Abou Jaoude, the Managing Director of Sageto Nigeria Limited. This inclusive team structure signals that the Lagos State Government is moving beyond mere policy talk toward the actual physical transformation of Badagry’s tourism landscape.
The core of the itinerary focused on Ouidah, a city globally renowned for its immersive historical storytelling. The Lagos delegation toured the emotive Point of No Return, the ancient Slave Market, and the towering, iconic Amazon Statue.
Hon. Solomon Bonu noted that seeing Ouidah’s management of these sensitive sites provided "valuable exposure to international standards." The goal is to replicate this level of maintenance and visitor experience in Badagry, ensuring that sites like the Point of No Return on Badagry’s Gberefu Island can compete on the global stage.
The presence of the Special Adviser on Works, Engr. Adekunle Olayinka, was pivotal. For tourism to thrive in Badagry, the access roads and surrounding infrastructure must match the historical significance of the sites. The delegation assessed how the Republic of Benin integrated world-class road networks with cultural landmarks, providing a blueprint for the "Greater Badagry" development plan.
"This is about more than just history; it’s about economic growth," Hon. Bonu remarked during the tour. "By elevating Badagry’s tourism standards, we are creating jobs, attracting foreign exchange, and ensuring that our heritage becomes a sustainable asset for future generations."
The visit to the Amazon Statue, a tribute to the legendary all-female military regiment of the Kingdom of Dahomey, served as an inspiration for the delegation. It highlighted the power of monumental art in tourism. Lagos State intends to leverage similar narratives to honor the resilience and history of the Badagry people, repositioning the town as a destination for both education and inspiration.
Commissioner Toke Benson-Awoyinka emphasized that the tour was an exercise in cultural diplomacy. By strengthening ties with the Republic of Benin, Lagos is fostering a regional partnership that could lead to joint tourism packages, allowing global travelers to explore the "Slave Route" across both nations with ease.
As the delegation returns to Lagos, the focus shifts to implementation. The insights gained from Ouidah’s immersive cultural experiences are expected to influence the final touches on several ongoing projects in Badagry.