Wole Soyinka led a symbolic return ceremony in Badagry, presenting certificates to 57 Diaspora Africans while plans were unveiled for a larger 2026 voyage.
Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka on Saturday led a symbolic homecoming ceremony for 57 Africans in the Diaspora, presenting them with Certificates of Return at the Fifth Door of Return Ceremony in Badagry, Lagos State. The colourful event featured dancing masqueraders, Zangheto displays and performances from various quarters of the ancient town.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, said over 2,000 returnees would arrive during the 2026 festival, adding that President Bola Tinubu would personally receive them. “Next year, under the Chairmanship of Soyinka, we are planning historical voyage events where we will experience real journey from Brazil and Cuba to Nigeria. Today’s event is just a test run,” she said.
Prof. Soyinka declared that the African journey remained incomplete without a return to ancestral roots, describing the festival as “a symbolic launchpad for the long-awaited return.”