History of slave trade in Nigeria is not complete without mentioning Badagry. This is why Badagry will continue to be one of the historical places to visit.
Newsclick Nigeria bring you some of the historical sites in Badagry.
See part one here
Spirit Attenuation Well
The spirit attenuation well contains water. The water in this well is unsafe for drinking because some portions (black magic) have been added to it by African leaders. The water contains charm which have great effect on the slave when given to them to drink.
Slaves who are captured or sold are frequently mistreated on the way. Their hands and legs are chained. Their lips are sometimes clasped shut.
To prevent the risk of losing their slaves, or to prevent the slaves from recognising and going back to their home when they have the chance either on their way to their destination or after getting to their destination, they usually give people the water to drink .
Point of No Return
Gberefu Island, also known as Point of No Return, is a populated historical island in Badagry, Lagos.
The island, represented by two poles slightly angled towards each other and facing the Atlantic Ocean, was a major slave port after it opened in 1473 during the Transatlantic Slave Trade era.
According to Nigerian historians, as many as 10,000 slaves were believed to have been shipped from the island to the Americas between 1518 and 1880.
Source: Travelwaka
Agiya Tree Monument
Christianity was first preached in Badagry, at a spot known as “Agia Tree” and the sermon was delivered by Reverend Birch Freeman.
In 1949, the Agia tree monument was established to preserve the site where Christianity was first preached. It is notable for being the first location in Nigeria where the Christian gospel was shared.
The Agia monument is a popular tourist destination for Christian pilgrims who travel long distances to see the first place Christianity was preached in Nigeria. Everyone is welcome to share in the history of the gospel’s spread, which is located in the peaceful city of Badagry.
First Primary School in Nigeria
In 1843, missionaries from the Weslyian Mission (Methodist Church) built the first Primary school in Nigeria
This occurred during the colonial era. The Nursery of Infant Church was the name given to the school.
Two years after, the school was renamed, St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and Primary school, by Reverend Golmer of the CMS(Church Missionary Society).
The school’s first class consisted of 40 men ranging in age from 50 to 80.
