Each year on October 1st, Nigerians across the world, celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day with great enthusiasm. For many, it is a time to participate in marches, parades, and stunning displays adorned with the colours of our national flag, the striking green-white-green.
This day holds special significance for history enthusiasts as it provides a unique opportunity to delve into Nigeria’s past and explore its journey towards independence and nationhood in 1960.
As we reflect on independence from colonial rule, AF24NEWS takes a look at some of the numerous historic sites across the country that offer a glimpse into the past and provide a deeper understanding of the events surrounding this important day.
Join us as we embark on a journey to explore some of the most captivating Independence Day historic sites.
Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos
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The Tafawa Balewa Square, (TBS), originally called ‘Race Course’ at 45/57 Massey Bamgboshe Street in Lagos Island, Lagos, is one historical monument where the occasion signaling the independence of Nigeria was first celebrated.
The large expanse of land was provided to colonial authorities by Oba Dosunmu in 1859. And in those heydays, the course hosted the Empire Day parades. The horse racing track was about seven to eight furlongs or a mile.
Major national events at TBS include Nigeria’s independence celebration which took place on October 1, 1960 with the lowering of the Union Jack, and the Prime Minister, Tafawa Balewa, delivering his speech.
Lord Lugard House, Lokoja
The Lord Lugard’s Residence and Office was the first abode of Sir Frederick Lugard, the Governor-General of the two protectorates (North and South) that were later amalgamated to be called Nigeria. Some of these edifices which were built as far back as 1900 still stand tall and tucked in different parts of Lokoja, Kogi State.
These monuments were the seat of Lord Lugard’s power when Lokoja served as the capital of the Northern Protectorate. Many decades later, in order to preserve the city’s colonial heritage, the State Government transformed it into the Government House, keeping its prominence as the apex powerhouse of Kogi State.
The Slave Museum
Located in Calabar, Cross River State, the Slave Museum houses a collection of artefacts and materials that were utilized during the era of the slave trade. These exhibits include shackles, chains, and various forms of currency that were employed in the purchase and trade of enslaved individuals, such as copper bars, brass bells, and flutes.
Similarly, another significant Slave Museum can be found in Badagry, Lagos State. Both museums serve as poignant reminders of the dark chapter in human history and provide visitors with insights into the brutal realities of the transatlantic slave trade.
The First Storey Building
The first-ever story building in Nigeria can be found in Badagry, Lagos State. Its construction started in 1842 and was finished in 1845. Reverend Henry Townsend from the Church Missionary Society (CMS) is praised for building this historic edifice.
This edifice is a significant vestige of colonial rule following the contributions of Townsend’s impact on Nigeria and its people, in terms of establishing skill centres, farm settlements, corn mills and encouraging literacy, especially the writing and reading of the Yoruba language.
These sites, steeped in history and rich with tales of courage, sacrifice, and determination, offer not just a glimpse into the past, but also a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs that led to the birth of a nation.
Arewa House Kaduna
This is the residence of the powerful Premier of the Northern Region, Sir Ahmadu Bello. The house has been turned into a national treasure housing the memorabilia of the former premier. Inside the house are his personal effects from caps, turbans, cooking plates and the kettle and cups with which he used to drink his favourite tea.
As we celebrate Independence Day, a visit to these landmarks can help us to appreciate the enduring value of our freedom and the cost at which it was won.
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