There is no way to understand the future without knowing the past. This is where history plays a vital role. Though rich and complex, history reminds us of the good, the bad and the ugly. Slavery is part of Nigeria’s history that we would not want to relive again. The painful era of slavery left an indelible mark on the nation’s past. Here are 3 historical sites that are testament to the slave trade:
Badagry Slave Port, Lagos
Located in the coastal town of Badagry, the Badagry Slave Port stood as the epicentre of the slave trade. On this same ground, countless souls endured unimaginable suffering, after losing their freedom and identity. The small cells, the “Point of No Return,” and the Slave Route Walk bear witness to the unpleasant experiences of those who were sold as slaves to foreigners.
The Brazilian Quarter, Lagos
Lagos’ Brazilian Quarter opens a window into the close ties between Nigeria and Brazil during the era of slavery. Established by Afro-Brazilian returnees, this district showcases the merging of cultures and traditions that emerged as a result of the transatlantic slave trade. This area is characterised by vibrant architecture and artefacts that tell the stories of resilience and adaptation.
Gberefu Island, Ogun state
Gberefu Island in the heart of Ogun state stands as the location where enslaved Africans were held before their journey across the Atlantic. The island’s ruins and remnants are testaments to the anguish and hopes of those who once stood on its shores. The island’s haunting beauty will connect you with the past in a profound and painful way.
Visiting these historical sites is more than a journey into the past. It is for education and remembrance of those who had gone before us.