Soyinka leads symbolic homecoming for 57 diaspora returnees in Lagos

Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka on Saturday led a symbolic homecoming ceremony for 57 Africans in the Diaspora, marking their reconnection with their ancestral roots during the Fifth Door of Return Ceremony in Badagry, Lagos State.

The event, which formed part of activities for the Diaspora Festival, featured the presentation of Certificates of Return to the returnees by Prof. Soyinka, symbolising a restoration of identity and cultural belonging. The celebration was marked by colourful cultural displays, including dancing masquerades, Zangheto performances, and traditional processions across Badagry.

Soyinka, in his address, reflected on the significance of the event, describing it as a powerful symbol of reconnection and reconciliation. He noted that the voyage of the African people would remain incomplete until there was a return to their ancestral homeland.

“Every journey has two parts — departure and return,” he said. “The voyage of African people remains unfinished until they reconnect with their roots. This festival stands as a symbolic launchpad for that long-awaited homecoming.”

The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, revealed that President Bola Tinubu is expected to receive over 2,000 returnees during the 2026 edition of the festival. She announced that the upcoming event, to be chaired by Prof. Soyinka, would feature a historic transatlantic voyage from Brazil and Cuba to Nigeria, retracing the paths of enslaved Africans.

“Next year, under the chairmanship of Prof. Soyinka, we will witness a historical voyage from Brazil and Cuba to Nigeria,” Dabiri-Erewa said. “Today’s ceremony is just a test run. President Tinubu, who initiated the Black Heritage Festival as Lagos governor, will be on ground to receive them.”

She also commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for constructing the Permanent Door of Return Monument in Badagry, describing it as a lasting symbol of unity and remembrance.

Representing the Lagos governor, Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser on Tourism, Arts and Culture, described the festival as “a living testament to Lagos’ commitment to cultural renaissance and diaspora unity.” He praised the people of Badagry for preserving the town’s legacy as the cradle of return, assuring continued government support to promote its global recognition.

Similarly, Bonu Solomon, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Tourism, lauded the festival’s symbolic value, calling it “a heritage bridge between Africa and her descendants abroad.” He pledged sustained legislative backing for cultural and tourism initiatives in the state.

Babatunde Hunpe, Chairman of Badagry Local Government, reaffirmed the town’s spiritual significance as the sacred soil of return and promised continued support for events that enhance tourism and economic growth.

The Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Miriam Palmero, expressed delight at the enduring cultural and spiritual bond between Africa and the Caribbean, while Dr. David Anderson, leader of the returnees from the United States, described the Door of Return as “a door of joy and happiness.”

The ceremony, which drew dignitaries from across Africa and the Diaspora, reaffirmed Badagry’s role as a historical gateway for remembrance, healing, and unity among people of African descent.