Badagry (Lagos State) Aug. 22, 2025 (NAN) The Badagry Local Government and the Confederation of Badagry Tourism Practitioners (CBTP) are set to mark the International Day for remembrance of slave trade and its abolition on August 23.
This is contained in a statement by the CBTP spokesman, Dr Tunde Ajose, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Badagry.
According to him, August 23 every year is set aside by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) to remember and honour the sacrifices, resilience, struggles and freedom of the enslaved African people.
“The declaration of the day was inspired by the successful revolt and victory of slaves on the island called ‘Santo Domingo’ now known as Haiti.
“Since 1999, Badagry people have celebrated the day in line with UNESCO’s declaration,” he said.
He said the occasion would feature public lectures, drama, vigil, atonement ceremony and exhibitions, among others.
Ajose said the celebration would take a new dimension this year due to the the unprecedented partnership with the Badagry Local Government and other tourism stakeholders.
“The local government under the leadership of, Mr Babatunde Hunpe, has demonstrated unparalleled commitment by sponsoring this year’s edition,” he said.
According to him, the United Nations programme for 2025 emphasises acknowledging the history, advocating reparatory justice frameworks to address its legacies, and combat the ongoing systemic racism it created.
“This is an essential step for building a future of dignity and justice for all, as slavery legacies continue to shape the world through deep-rooted exclusion, discrimination, and violence,” he said.
Ajose said the 2025 remembrance would be focusing on recognising the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade and its lasting impact.
“We’ll put in place frameworks to address the historical injustices and economic benefits derived from slavery.
“We will also address the deep-rooted exclusion and racial discrimination against people of African descent, which are legacies of the slave trade and work toward building a future where all individuals can thrive and enjoy fundamental rights,” he said.
Those expected at the occasion are cultural advocates, diplomats, political leaders, researchers, tourist government functionaries, and students, among others . (NAN)
