A recent Facebook discussion initiated by Olamilekan Quadri has sparked conversation about the visibility, coordination, and promotion of Badagry’s cultural festivals, focusing on the idea that the community should avoid constantly tying every cultural celebration elsewhere to Badagry.

Quadri wrote:


The post resonated with some residents, who acknowledged the validity of his point. Kilani Waheed Olakunle commented, "Like say you dey my mind, brov," which Quadri described as "envy" manifesting in constant comparisons. Sewedo Sokenu expressed optimism about future events, writing, "Zangbeto time will come i no dey rush at all," to which Quadri responded that Badagry already has the infrastructure for a significant #Zangbeto Festival, but success requires unity and consistent organisation.

Other contributors highlighted the historical and cultural richness of Badagry, explaining why comparisons often arise. Babajide #Akran noted that Badagry possesses unique heritage assets—including the first storey building, the Point of No Return, Bible translation milestones, and festivals like Badagry Heritage Festival, Zangbeto, and Door of Return—yet struggles to receive the same government attention, tourism promotion, or sponsorships as Ojude Oba, Eyo, or Lisabi. Quadri acknowledged these concerns but stressed that the community must first demonstrate internal coordination and consistency before demanding recognition, stating:


Kriko St Augustine added context by explaining the balance between internal unity and government involvement. He noted that Badagry must strategically package its heritage for wider recognition: "If Zangbeto groups from 20 communities are properly curated and promoted, it would be a worthy spectacle… Stunts must be refined, performances properly structured, and drumming troupes must not turn the occasion into an opportunity to kowtow to those seated at the high table." Quadri agreed, emphasising that community cohesion is the prerequisite for any external support, adding that repeated comparisons during other events can be counterproductive.

Prince Lawrence Zofun and Victor Aihawu highlighted the need for active engagement with government officials and influential stakeholders, noting that internal coordination and consistent naming conventions are essential for festivals to gain traction. Quadri maintained that while external support is valuable, the community must first align internally, citing decades of inconsistent festival naming and organisation as a barrier to recognition.

The discussion also revealed that residents view repeated comparisons as a reflection of frustration rather than envy. Contributors like Senami, Hosu Hubert, and Matthew Gbenu reinforced Quadri’s message, acknowledging the importance of celebrating other cultural events while simultaneously building Badagry’s own sustainable and well-coordinated festival structures.

Ultimately, Quadri’s core message resonated across the thread: while Badagry has immense cultural and historical value, the community must focus on building internal consistency, unified branding, and structured event planning before making external comparisons or demanding recognition. Only through patience, strategic organisation, and proactive engagement can Badagry position its festivals for national and international prominence.