Dabiri-Erewa Commends Sanwo-Olu as 'Door of Return' Project Takes Shape in Badagry

Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has lauded Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for approving the construction of a permanent "Door of Return" monument in Badagry—an initiative aimed at strengthening ties between Nigeria and the global African diaspora.

Dabiri-Erewa made the commendation during an inspection visit to the ongoing construction site in Badagry on Wednesday. The project, which remains under development, is expected to become a major heritage tourism destination and a symbolic landmark for descendants of Africans who were forcibly taken through the transatlantic slave trade.

“This project represents healing, history, and homecoming,” she said. “We are proud to be part of an initiative that resonates deeply with our diaspora brothers and sisters.”

The “Door of Return” is being developed as a permanent cultural and historical edifice to promote reconnection, heritage education, and diaspora engagement. It is also expected to boost tourism and attract diaspora investment into Lagos State, especially in the historically significant Badagry region.

Dabiri-Erewa praised Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, describing his support for diaspora-related projects as visionary and essential for repositioning Lagos as a hub for cultural tourism.

Also present during the visit was Hon. Solomon Sanu, the member representing Badagry in the Lagos State House of Assembly. He expressed optimism about the project's economic and cultural impact, noting that the entire Badagry community is eagerly awaiting its completion.

“The people of Badagry are proud of this development and are looking forward to its commissioning,” Sanu said.

Once completed, the Door of Return site is expected to gain international recognition as a powerful symbol of remembrance, identity, and reconnection for Africans in the diaspora.