Lagos State Government, on Friday, said over 20,000 visitors are expected to participate in a 181st Christmas celebration scheduled to hold in the ancient city of Badagry.
The event tagged: “Christmas in Badagry (CIB)” is in partnership with Lagos State government through the Ministries of Tourism, Art & Culture and Home Affairs, among others, and considered to be a beacon of tradition and unity.
Project Manager of CIB, Olufemi Iroko, made this known at a press conference which took place at Alausa, Ikeja, saying that the event slated for 23rd to 26th of December, was a reminiscent to commemorate the first Christmas that was marked in Nigeria.
Iroko, while noting that the event would witness the residents of Badagry, along with visitors, joining hands to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, quickly recalled the sermon message of Rev Henry Townsend and Rev. Birch Freeman on that faithful day tagged: “The Incarnation of the Redeemer of Mankind’’ which he said still resonated in the town till today.
According to him, also that particular day, traditional songs and dances filled the air as the community gathered for a collective expression of joy and gratitude, describing the gathering as “a celebration that transcended religious boundaries, uniting people in the spirit of communal harmony.”
“This service marked a significant milestone in the spread of Christianity in Nigeria, Africa and around the world. It signified the beginning of a spiritual journey, a profound shift in the religious landscape, and the introduction of a transformative message of hope, love, and redemption.
“Such an event warrants a commemoration that not only highlights the historical significance but also underlines the enduring impact of the Gospel message on Nigeria culture, values, and societal development,” he said.
Iroko, however, assured that the four-day event promises an immersive and rich cultural experience that would capture the essence of the season, noting that with Christian pilgrimage put to a halt due to the ongoing Hamas-Israel war, “Badagry is positioned to be the destination for Nigerian Christian Pilgrims.”
According to him, the festivities will kick off with the largest Santa walk and lightening of our 40ft tall Christmas Tree, saying that other activities include an exhilarating Beach Soccer Tournament, where teams would compete against the stunning backdrop of Badagry’s beautiful beaches and party hard as well as “a Carnival Parade which promises to be a riot of colors, with participants adorned in vibrant costumes, dancing to the beats of traditional and contemporary music.”
“The Bonfire Delight, set against the rhythmic sounds of the Gulf of Guinea, will provide a magical ambiance as participants and spectators come together to celebrate the season.
“The beautiful performance of our talented Badagry metropolitan choir and other gospel artists will fill the air with beautiful hymns and carols that capture the spirit of the season.
“The retelling of the nativity story through captivating drama and recitations will transport you to the Bethlehem of old,” the project manager said.
“The celebration of 181 years of Christmas in Badagry not only symbolizes the passage of time, but also serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength of our community.
“Badagry as you may know is the community of many firsts, starting with the first location gospel was preached in Nigeria.
“The first place Christmas was celebrated in Nigeria (just so you know, Badagry is the only location experiencing 181st Christmas in Nigeria this year). Others are the First Storey Building, first primary school, among others.
“Beyond the entertainment, Christmas in Badagry is about community engagement and giving back. The event will feature various outreach programs and charity initiatives, reflecting the spirit of compassion and solidarity that has defined Badagry throughout its history,” he added.
. TheWitness
